Tag: Phosphofructokinase

Zinc is the second most abundant trace element in the human body and plays a critical role in cellular metabolism. Its function in glycolysis is complex, involving both activating and inhibitory effects depending on the concentration and cellular context.

Over a hundred years ago, scientists first described glycolysis, the metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose into pyruvate. A delicate balance of signals controls this ancient process, constantly adjusting to meet a cell's changing energy needs. Understanding what encourages glycolysis is key to comprehending cellular energy regulation.

Unlike glucose, which is metabolized widely across the body, fructose is processed primarily by the liver, a key difference explaining why fructose leads to enhanced fatty acid synthesis. This unique hepatic pathway allows for a more rapid and unregulated conversion into fat precursors, with significant implications for metabolic health.