Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas (EMP) pathway

Definition

The Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas (EMP) pathway is a series of biochemical reactions that break down glucose to produce ATP and pyruvate. It is the most common type of glycolysis in cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The EMP pathway occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell.
2. It consists of ten enzyme-catalyzed steps divided into two phases: the energy investment phase and the energy payoff phase.
3. The net gain from one molecule of glucose through the EMP pathway is two molecules of ATP and two molecules of NADH.
4. Pyruvate, the end product, can enter anaerobic or aerobic pathways for further energy extraction.
5. The EMP pathway does not require oxygen, making it an anaerobic process.

Review Questions

Related terms

Glycolysis:

The metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, releasing energy and forming ATP.

Fermentation:

A metabolic process that converts sugar to acids, gases or alcohol in the absence of oxygen.

Krebs Cycle:

A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA.