Which enzyme catalyzes the final step of glycolysis, converting phosph...
Enzyme in Glycolysis
In glycolysis, the final step involves the conversion of phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) to pyruvate, and this reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme pyruvate kinase.
Role of Pyruvate Kinase
- Catalytic Function: Pyruvate kinase facilitates the transfer of a phosphate group from PEP to ADP, resulting in the formation of ATP and pyruvate.
- Irreversible Reaction: This step is considered irreversible and is a key regulatory point in glycolysis.
Significance of the Reaction
- Energy Production: The conversion of PEP to pyruvate is crucial because it generates ATP, providing energy for cellular processes.
- Metabolic Pathway Transition: Pyruvate serves as a vital intermediate that can enter the citric acid cycle or be converted into lactate under anaerobic conditions.
Comparison with Other Enzymes
- Phosphoglycerate Kinase: This enzyme acts earlier in glycolysis, converting 1,3-bisphosphoglycerate to 3-phosphoglycerate, also generating ATP but not at the final step.
- Hexokinase: This enzyme catalyzes the first step of glycolysis, converting glucose to glucose-6-phosphate, which is far from the final step.
- Aldolase: This enzyme is involved in splitting fructose-1,6-bisphosphate into two three-carbon sugars but does not participate in the final conversion to pyruvate.
Conclusion
In summary, pyruvate kinase is essential for the final step of glycolysis, converting phosphoenolpyruvate to pyruvate while producing ATP, making it a key enzyme in cellular metabolism.
Which enzyme catalyzes the final step of glycolysis, converting phosph...
Pyruvate kinase catalyzes the conversion of phosphoenolpyruvate to pyruvate, generating ATP in the process, making it a key step in glycolysis.