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Multiple Choice
Which molecule acts as an allosteric activator of phosphofructokinase-1 in glycolysis?
A
AMP
B
NADH
C
Glucose
D
ATP
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of phosphofructokinase-1 (PFK-1) in glycolysis: PFK-1 is a key regulatory enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of fructose-6-phosphate to fructose-1,6-bisphosphate, a crucial step in glycolysis.
Identify what an allosteric activator is: An allosteric activator is a molecule that binds to an enzyme at a site other than the active site, causing a conformational change that increases the enzyme's activity.
Consider the energy state of the cell: Glycolysis is a pathway that generates ATP, and its regulation is closely tied to the cell's energy needs. When energy is low, glycolysis is activated to produce more ATP.
Evaluate the molecules listed: AMP, NADH, Glucose, and ATP. AMP is a signal of low energy status in the cell, whereas ATP is a signal of high energy status. NADH is involved in other metabolic pathways, and glucose is a substrate for glycolysis.
Determine which molecule acts as an allosteric activator: AMP is known to activate PFK-1 by signaling low energy levels, thus promoting glycolysis to generate more ATP.