Chapter 1.1, Problem 11EIQ

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Brain is the vital organ of a body that controls and co-ordinates all the activities of the body in a systematic manner. Body cells use carbohydrates and fats as energy source, but vertebrate neurons require only glucose. Neurons primarily use glucose as a fuel, but occasionally use ketones and lactate as fuel sources. Glucose is the only fuel that can cross the blood-brain barrier in large quantities, thereby ensuring constant fuel supply to the brain. For using glucose, the brain needs vitamin B₁ or thiamine to produce energy required for normal functioning.