57 by: Joe Ignace

Student – Joe Ignace

Enzyme: Pyruvate Carboxylase

EC # – 6.4.1.1

Pyruvate carboxylase is found within the mitochondria of cells. It is primarily abundant in tissues such as the liver and kidneys, which have high metabolic demands.  Its primary role is gluconeogenesis, which is the process that generates glucose from non-carbohydrate sources.

What does the enzyme do? Pyruvate carboxylase catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to oxaloacetate, a critical step in gluconeogenesis. This reaction is essential for replenishing oxaloacetate in the TCA cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle and ensures the continuity of energy production. The enzyme requires biotin as a cofactor and is vital in maintaining blood sugar levels, particularly during fasting or intense exercise.

Interesting fact – The enzyme is also essential in lipogenesis (fat synthesis) by providing oxaloacetate, which combines with acetyl-CoA to form citrate in the TCA cycle.

References

1. 1. Attwood, P. V., & Wallace, J. C. (2002). Pyruvate carboxylase. *International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology*, 34(1), 24-36. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1357-2725(01)00096-1
2. 2. Jitrapakdee, S., & Wallace, J. C. (1999). The biotin-dependent enzymes. *Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry*, 10(6), 324-329. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0955-2863(99)00028-6
3. 3. Scrutton, M. C., & Utter, M. F. (1968). The regulation of pyruvate carboxylase in gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis. *Annual Review of Biochemistry*, 37(1), 249-268. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.bi.37.070168.001341
4. Videos:
5. 1. Stressed Students with Professor R. (2023, January 21). Pyruvate Carboxylase Enzyme Mechanism | Biochemistry. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-mjZm6SgWI
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13. 7. Melli Due-Moe. (2023, October 7). Grinch Stealing Christmas Lights. Pinterest. https://www.pinterest.com/pin/383861568253695079/
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