The phosphofructokinase (PFK) enzyme is one of the key players in the glycolytic pathway in which glucose eventually breaks down into pyruvate, some ATP is generated, and some NAD⁺ is reduced. PFK catalyzes the committed step in the pathway and is under extensive regulation. Which of the following compounds would you expect to activate PFK?
A) ADP
B) NADH
C) Pyruvate
D) ATP
E) All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

NADH, pyruvate, and ATP are all the products of the pathway and are not expected to activate PFK. On the other hand, a low energy charge in the cell (with a high ADP/ATP ratio) should trigger the activation of the glycolytic and oxidative respiratory pathways to generate more ATP.

The Phosphofructokinase (PFK) Enzyme Is One of the Key Players