triose phosphate isomerase
Interconverts dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate
Triose phosphate isomerase (TPI) is an enzyme that catalyses the interconversion of dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate (G3P). This is a crucial step in glycolysis, a metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose to produce ATP, the energy currency of cells.
TPI belongs to a class of enzymes called isomerases, which catalyse the rearrangement of molecules without changing their overall chemical composition. In the case of TPI, the enzyme converts the ketone DHAP into the aldose G3P, which is a more reactive molecule that can be further metabolized to produce energy.
TPI is present in all living organisms, from bacteria to humans. In humans, mutations in the TPI gene can lead to an autosomal recessive disease called TPI deficiency, which is characterized by hemolytic anemia, neuromuscular problems, and developmental delay.
Overall, TPI plays a vital role in the regulation of cellular metabolism, and its activity is tightly regulated to ensure proper energy production and homeostasis in the body.
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