Fructolysis

Fructolysis refers to the metabolism of fructose, a monosaccharide found in many plants. The process of fructolysis takes place in the liver, where fructose is converted into fructose 1-phosphate by the enzyme fructokinase. This process is distinct from glycolysis, the metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate.

Process of Fructolysis

The first step in fructolysis is the phosphorylation of fructose to fructose 1-phosphate by fructokinase. This step is irreversible and is a key regulatory point in the metabolism of fructose.

Next, fructose 1-phosphate is split into glyceraldehyde and dihydroxyacetone phosphate by the enzyme aldolase B. Both of these products can be further metabolized to produce energy in the form of ATP.

Regulation of Fructolysis

The regulation of fructolysis is primarily controlled by the availability of fructose and the activity of fructokinase. High levels of fructose will increase the rate of fructolysis, while low levels will decrease it. The activity of fructokinase is also regulated by several factors, including the levels of its substrates and products, and by hormones such as insulin and glucagon.

Health Implications

Excessive consumption of fructose can lead to a number of health problems, including insulin resistance, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This is because the metabolism of fructose in the liver can lead to the production of fat, which can accumulate in the liver and other tissues.

See Also

• Glycolysis
• Glucose metabolism
• Carbohydrate metabolism