Britannica AI Icon

ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate

chemical compound
Also known as: RuBP

Quick Summary

Ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) is a five-carbon compound crucial for photosynthesis in plants. It plays a key role in the Calvin-Benson cycle, the primary pathway for carbon fixation in many plants. In this cycle, the enzyme RuBisCO attaches carbon dioxide to RuBP, initiating the process of converting atmospheric carbon dioxide into sugars. This reaction is the first step in the "dark reactions" of photosynthesis, which use the chemical energy produced during the light-dependent reactions to synthesize carbohydrates. RuBP is regenerated within the cycle, allowing photosynthesis to continue. Some plants, like sugarcane and corn, use a modified pathway (C4 fixation) that enhances carbon dioxide concentration, minimizing a process called photorespiration.1234

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.