This web page was produced as an assignment for Genetics 564, an undergraduate capstone course at UW-Madison.
What is Congenital Lactase Deficiency (CLD)?
Congenital Lactase Deficiency (CLD) is a rare disease that causes infant onset lactose intolerance. Lactose is a sugar that is present in dairy and milk products, as well as breastmilk. Individuals with this experience severe diarrhea, which can lead to malnutrition if left untreated. Most experience a full recovery once placed on lactose-free formula.
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How is lactose digested?
Lactose is a disaccharide, which is a sugar molecule made of two individual subunits. This disaccharide is digested by breaking it into its two monomers, which are simple sugars that the body can use. Lactose is broken down into glucose and galactose by the enzyme called lactase. |