What is produced in step 3 of glycolysis in terms of energy currency?

In glycolysis, step 3 specifically involves the conversion of fructose-6-phosphate to fructose-1,6-bisphosphate, catalyzed by the enzyme phosphofructokinase. This reaction is a key regulatory step and is notable because it involves the transfer of a phosphate group from ATP to fructose-6-phosphate, resulting in the production of ADP and fructose-1,6-bisphosphate.

In this context, the energy currency involved is primarily ATP, as it is consumed, which leads to the formation of ADP. While ADP is indeed produced in this step, it does not represent a net energy gain; instead, it reflects the utilization of ATP in the pathway.

The other options, such as ATP, NADH, and FADH2, are not produced in step 3 of glycolysis. ATP is consumed rather than produced, while NADH and FADH2 are generated in other metabolic processes, particularly in the later steps of glycolysis and subsequent cellular respiration pathways. Thus, the focus on ADP production is critical in understanding the energy dynamics during this specific step of glycolysis.