glucose-6-phosphate transport

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The directed movement of glucose-6-phosphate into, out of or within a cell, or between cells, by means of some agent such as a transporter or pore. Glucose-6-phosphate is a monophosphorylated derivative of glucose with the phosphate group attached to C-6. [GOC:ai]

Glucose-6-phosphate (G6P) transport is a crucial process in cellular metabolism, ensuring the efficient movement of G6P across cell membranes. This sugar phosphate, a key intermediate in carbohydrate metabolism, is involved in a multitude of metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, glycogen synthesis, and the pentose phosphate pathway.

G6P transport is facilitated by specific membrane proteins known as glucose-6-phosphate translocases (G6PTs). These integral membrane proteins act as carriers, binding to G6P on one side of the membrane and releasing it on the other. The movement of G6P is typically driven by concentration gradients or electrochemical gradients, ensuring its delivery to specific cellular compartments where it is needed.

In the context of glycolysis, G6P is transported from the cytoplasm, where it is generated from glucose phosphorylation, into the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell. This transport is mediated by the mitochondrial G6PT, also known as the G6P transporter. Inside the mitochondria, G6P undergoes further metabolism to produce ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell.

Conversely, in glycogen synthesis, G6P is transported from the cytoplasm into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), where it is used as a substrate for glycogen synthesis. This process is facilitated by the ER G6PT, also known as the glucose-6-phosphatase/glucose-6-phosphate translocase complex.

Beyond glycolysis and glycogen synthesis, G6P transport plays a crucial role in the pentose phosphate pathway, which provides NADPH, a reducing agent essential for biosynthesis, and ribose-5-phosphate, a precursor for nucleotide synthesis. G6P transport is crucial for the efficient operation of this pathway, ensuring the availability of G6P as a substrate.

In summary, G6P transport is a vital process that ensures the efficient movement of this key metabolite across cellular membranes, enabling its participation in diverse metabolic pathways and supporting cellular function.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)