Biochemistry : Isomerases

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Biochemistry

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Example Questions

Example Question #3 : Protein Functions

Phosphoglucomutase is an enzyme seen in glycogen breakdown. It is responsible for converting glucose-1-phosphate () to glucose-6-phosphate ().  

Based on this action, to which enzyme class does phosphoglucomutase belong?

Possible Answers:

Lyase

Ligase

Isomerase

Oxidoreductase

Correct answer:

Isomerase

Explanation:

Phosphoglucomutase is responsible for altering the position of the phosphate on the glucose from the "1" position to the "6" position. However, notice how the molecular formula for the product and the substrate are the same. Enzymes that rearrange the structure of a molecule in this manner are referred to as isomerase enzymes.

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