key term - Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase

Definition

Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase is a key regulatory enzyme in gluconeogenesis, responsible for converting fructose-1,6-bisphosphate to fructose-6-phosphate. This enzyme plays a critical role in the metabolic adaptation between fed and fasting states, as it helps to regulate blood glucose levels during periods of low carbohydrate availability. Its activity is influenced by various metabolites, making it essential for maintaining energy homeostasis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase is primarily found in the liver and kidneys, where gluconeogenesis is most active.
2. This enzyme is inhibited by AMP and fructose-2,6-bisphosphate, signaling low energy availability and high glycolytic flux.
3. The activity of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase is essential for the regulation of blood sugar levels during fasting states.
4. Citrate acts as an allosteric activator of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, promoting gluconeogenesis when energy substrates are abundant.
5. Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase is a critical point of control in the balance between gluconeogenesis and glycolysis.

Review Questions

• How does fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase facilitate metabolic adaptations during fasting?
  • Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase facilitates metabolic adaptations during fasting by converting fructose-1,6-bisphosphate into fructose-6-phosphate, effectively promoting gluconeogenesis. During fasting, glucose levels drop, and the body relies on this pathway to synthesize glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. The enzyme’s activity ensures that glucose is produced to maintain essential functions in the absence of dietary carbohydrates.
• Discuss the regulation of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase and its importance in maintaining energy balance in the body.
  • Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase is regulated by several metabolites that indicate the cell's energy state. It is inhibited by AMP and fructose-2,6-bisphosphate when energy levels are low or when glycolysis needs to be prioritized. Conversely, citrate activates this enzyme when energy substrates are plentiful. This regulation ensures that gluconeogenesis occurs primarily when it is beneficial for energy homeostasis, thereby balancing glucose production with energy needs.
• Evaluate the impact of impaired fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase function on gluconeogenesis and overall metabolic health.
  • Impaired function of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase can severely disrupt gluconeogenesis, leading to hypoglycemia during fasting states as glucose production from non-carbohydrate sources becomes inadequate. This dysfunction can result in increased reliance on glycolysis and potentially lead to lactic acidosis due to excessive pyruvate conversion to lactate. Overall metabolic health would suffer as stable blood glucose levels become harder to maintain, impacting energy availability for vital processes.

Related terms

Gluconeogenesis: A metabolic pathway that generates glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors, primarily occurring in the liver and kidneys.

Fructose-2,6-bisphosphate: A potent allosteric regulator of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase and phosphofructokinase, which plays a crucial role in the regulation of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis.

Citrate: A key intermediate in the citric acid cycle that can stimulate fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase activity, linking energy status with gluconeogenesis.