Which step directly follows the conversion of glucose to glucose-6-phosphate?

The conversion of glucose to glucose-6-phosphate is a pivotal step in the glycolytic pathway and is catalyzed by the enzyme hexokinase or glucokinase. This step is the first in the glycolytic pathway and effectively commits glucose to metabolism within the cell because glucose-6-phosphate cannot readily exit the cell and is a precursor for various metabolic pathways.

The step that directly follows the conversion of glucose to glucose-6-phosphate is the isomerization of glucose-6-phosphate to fructose-6-phosphate. This is facilitated by the enzyme phosphoglucose isomerase and is part of the overall glycolytic pathway. The sequential nature of these transformations is critical in ensuring that glucose is properly processed for energy production.

Understanding this sequential flow is essential, as each step is carefully regulated and sets the stage for subsequent reactions in glycolysis, leading eventually to the generation of ATP and other metabolites that are vital for cellular function.