Which enzyme is responsible for the conversion of Citrate to Isocitrate?

The enzyme responsible for the conversion of citrate to isocitrate is aconitase. This reaction is a key step in the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle or TCA cycle). Aconitase catalyzes the reversible conversion of citrate to isocitrate through an intermediate called cis-aconitate. This process involves the rearrangement of the citrate molecule, where the hydroxyl group is relocated, facilitating the overall metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy.

Understanding the role of aconitase is crucial for grasping how the TCA cycle operates, as it highlights the importance of enzyme specificity and the biochemical pathways involved in cellular respiration. The conversion of citrate to isocitrate is vital because it sets the stage for subsequent reactions in the cycle, contributing to the production of NADH and FADH2, which are essential for ATP generation in the electron transport chain.