Glycolysis

Definition

Glycolysis is the metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate, producing ATP and NADH in the process. It occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and does not require oxygen.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glycolysis produces a net gain of 2 ATP molecules per glucose molecule.
2. It generates 2 molecules of NADH, which are used in other metabolic pathways for further energy production.
3. The end product, pyruvate, can be further metabolized aerobically or anaerobically depending on the availability of oxygen.
4. Key enzymes involved include hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, and pyruvate kinase.
5. Electrolytes like magnesium and phosphate play crucial roles as cofactors in various steps of glycolysis.

Review Questions

• What is the net gain of ATP molecules produced during glycolysis?
• Which key enzymes regulate the glycolysis pathway?
• How do electrolytes such as magnesium contribute to glycolysis?

Related terms

ATP: Adenosine triphosphate, the primary energy carrier in cells.

NADH: Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, a coenzyme involved in redox reactions during metabolism.

Pyruvate: The end product of glycolysis that can be further metabolized to produce more energy.