Question

Given that ΔG°´ for the glycogen phosphorylase reaction is +3.1 kJ/mol, what factors in the cell make the actual free energy change (ΔΔG) favorable?

A. Pi being much greater than glucose-1-P
B. high glucose-1-P
C. high glucose-6-P
D. highly reducing environment of the cytoplasm

Answer 1

The actual free energy change (ΔΔG) for the glycogen phosphorylase reaction can be favorable due to factors such as high glucose-1-P and glucose-6-P concentrations, as well as the highly reducing environment of the cytoplasm.

Step-by-step explanation:

The actual free energy change (ΔΔG) for the glycogen phosphorylase reaction can be favorable due to several factors in the cell:

1. High glucose-1-P concentration: A high concentration of glucose-1-P can drive the reaction forward, as it is the reactant in the reaction.
2. High glucose-6-P concentration: A high concentration of glucose-6-P can also favor the reaction, as it can be converted to glucose-1-P and maintain a high concentration of glucose-1-P.
3. The highly reducing environment of the cytoplasm: The cytoplasm of the cell is a reducing environment with a high concentration of reducing agents, such as NADH. These reducing agents can help drive the reaction forward by providing electrons for the reduction of reactants.