Final answer:
The isomerization of Dihydroxyacetone phosphate to Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate is strongly favored due to the action of triose phosphate isomerase, which facilitates the continuation of glycolysis by providing two molecules of G-3-P needed for subsequent steps.
Step-by-step explanation:
The isomerization of Dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) to Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G-3-P) is a key step in glycolysis because it ensures the continuation of this metabolic pathway. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme triose phosphate isomerase, which efficiently converts DHAP, a three-carbon ketone, into G-3-P, a three-carbon aldehyde.
It is important because glycolysis requires two molecules of G-3-P to continue into the second phase, also known as the "Pay Off Step". Despite being an endergonic reaction (proceeding with a positive free energy change), the overall process of splitting 1,6-bisphosphate into two molecules of G-3-P is biologically crucial and is made favorable by the high efficiency of triose phosphate isomerase and the cellular need for the products of glycolysis.