The major subdivisions of monosaccharides are shown in Table 2.1.

Table 2.1 Subdivisions of Monosaccharides

Monosaccharides are soluble in water and insoluble in organic solvents. They are odourless crystals with a sweet taste. The chemical properties of these sugars are due to the presence of hydroxyl and carbonyl groups. Their sources, biochemical importance, and clinical significance are provided in Table 2.2.

Table 2.2 Sources, Biochemical Importance, and Clinical Significance of Monosaccharides