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phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase

enzyme

Quick Summary

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in gluconeogenesis, the process of synthesizing glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors. In many organisms, including mammals, PEPCK facilitates the conversion of oxaloacetate into phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP), a key step in gluconeogenesis. This reaction requires energy, typically supplied by ATP or a similar molecule. PEPCK is also involved in the growth of microorganisms on certain carbon sources, where it helps to generate intermediates for carbohydrate metabolism. The activity of PEPCK can be regulated by the cell's energy state and the presence of other metabolites.123

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