Maltose

Maltose, molecular formula C₁₂H₂₂O₁₁, is a disaccharide consisting of two glucose subunits. The principle isomer of maltose is 4-O-α-D-Glucopyranosyl-D-glucose of which both glucoses are the alpha form. Maltobiose or malt sugar is 4-O-alpha-D-Glucopyranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranose which is made up of alpha & beta glucoses. You can use our 3D Model Builder to view & compare both forms of this molecule.

The(1->4) link is the α form since the glycosidic bond to the anomeric carbon, C1 is in the opposite plane from the CH2OH in the same ring on the C6 of the first glucose. When the glycosidic bond to the anomeric carbon, C1, is in the same plane as the CH₂OH, it is designated a β(1→4) bond, and the molecule would be maltobiose.