Tetrose

Tetroses are monosaccharides, the carbon backbone contains four carbon atoms. They all have the molecular formula C4H8O4 and differ by the nature of the carbonyl function. If it is a keto group, it is called ketosis, in an aldehyde group they are called aldoses. The phosphoric esters of tetroses play an important role in carbohydrate metabolism.

Aldotetroses

The aldotetroses possess two chiral centers, there are therefore four different stereoisomers, of which only use the D- erythrose and D- Threose course.

Threose

Ketotetrosen

Of the two Ketotetrosen only the D- Erythrulose occurs naturally.