Which compound is formed from glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate and inorganic phosphate in Step 6 of glycolysis?

The compound formed from glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate and inorganic phosphate in Step 6 of glycolysis is 1,3-bisphosphoglycerate. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. During this step, glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate is oxidized, and an inorganic phosphate is added to it, resulting in the formation of 1,3-bisphosphoglycerate.

1,3-bisphosphoglycerate is a high-energy compound because it contains two acyl phosphate groups, which are important for subsequent energy transfer in glycolysis. This step is also significant because it results in the reduction of NAD+ to NADH, capturing reducing power that is essential for cellular metabolism.

This understanding is crucial as it highlights the importance of high-energy intermediates like 1,3-bisphosphoglycerate in the overall process of glycolysis, which not only breaks down glucose for energy but also facilitates the production of ATP in later steps.