Which glycolysis reactions are catalyzed by the following enzymes?
a. Pyruvate kinase

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the role of pyruvate kinase in glycolysis. Pyruvate kinase catalyzes the final step of glycolysis, where phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) is converted into pyruvate.
2. Understand the reaction catalyzed by pyruvate kinase. This reaction involves the transfer of a phosphate group from PEP to ADP, forming ATP and pyruvate. This is an example of substrate-level phosphorylation.
3. Write the chemical equation for the reaction: ${\mathrm{PEP}}_{}+{\mathrm{ADP}}_{}\to {\mathrm{Pyruvate}}_{}+{\mathrm{ATP}}_{}$
4. Recognize the importance of this step. It is an irreversible reaction in glycolysis and is highly regulated to ensure proper energy production in the cell.
5. Note that this reaction is part of the energy payoff phase of glycolysis, where ATP is generated, contributing to the net gain of ATP in the process.

Key Concepts

Glycolysis

Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, producing energy in the form of ATP and NADH. It consists of ten enzyme-catalyzed reactions and occurs in the cytoplasm of cells. Understanding glycolysis is essential for grasping how cells generate energy and the role of various enzymes in this process.

Enzyme Catalysis

Enzyme catalysis refers to the process by which enzymes accelerate chemical reactions in biological systems. Each enzyme is specific to a particular reaction or type of reaction, lowering the activation energy required and increasing the reaction rate. In glycolysis, enzymes like pyruvate kinase play crucial roles in facilitating specific steps of the pathway.

Pyruvate Kinase

Pyruvate kinase is an enzyme that catalyzes the final step of glycolysis, converting phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) into pyruvate while producing ATP. This reaction is a key regulatory point in glycolysis and is influenced by various factors, including the availability of substrates and allosteric regulators. Understanding its function helps in comprehending the overall regulation of energy production in cells.