New research led by MSc graduate Alexander Myrka shows that ruby-throated hummingbirds express fructose transporter mRNA at uniquely high levels in flight muscle, but do not express fructolytic enzymes in the same tissue. This suggests flight muscle may be able to take up fructose at unusually high rates, but raises questions about how fructose phosphorylation (the first step in catabolizing this sugar) occurs.
The research appears in a special issue of Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology, Part B commemorating what would have been the 80th birthday of renowned comparative physiologist Dr. Peter Hochachka. The work was presented at a special symposium honoring Dr. Hochachka entitled, “50 Years of Comparative Biochemistry: The Legacy of Peter Hochachka“.
Congratulations Alex!