amino sugars
Amino sugars are a type of sugar molecule that contain an amino group, which is a functional group made up of nitrogen and hydrogen. These sugars are important components of various biological structures, including glycoproteins and glycolipids, which play crucial roles in cell recognition and signaling.
One of the most common amino sugars is glucosamine, which is often found in the shells of crustaceans and is used in dietary supplements for joint health. Another example is galactosamine, which is involved in the formation of cartilage and connective tissues.