Glucokinase Activity Assay Kit (Fluorometric)

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Glucokinase also known as GCK is an enzyme with a mass around 50 kDa. It functions by catalyzing the phosphorylation of glucose to glucose-6-phosphate an important step in glycolysis. Glucokinase displays a higher affinity for glucose as compared to other hexokinases which is indicated by its specific kinetic property known as the Km value. This enzyme is mainly expressed in the liver and pancreatic beta-cells where it plays an important role in glucose metabolism. Additionally glucokinase can also be found in the hypothalamus indicating its broader reach in carbohydrate sensing.

Biological function summary

Glucokinase acts as a glucose sensor regulating blood sugar levels and insulin secretion. This process does not involve the enzyme as part of a larger complex. Instead glucokinase functions independently to sense glucose concentrations and adjusts the rate of glucose phosphorylation accordingly. Its activity significantly affects the balance of glucose uptake and energy production especially during postprandial states when glucose levels rise. Glucokinase activity is therefore important to maintaining glucose homeostasis.

Pathways

Glucokinase plays a central role in the glycolytic pathway and interacts with the insulin signaling pathway. Within these pathways it influences how the liver stores glucose as glycogen and controls insulin release from pancreatic beta-cells. Glucokinase activity is modulated by glucose levels and is closely related to insulin receptor substrates that affect downstream insulin signaling. Its function is important for the proper regulation of these pathways linking glucose sensing with metabolic control in varied tissues.

Associated diseases and disorders

Glucokinase is pivotal in the context of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia. Mutations or dysregulation of glucokinase can lead to different forms of diabetes including maturity-onset diabetes of the young type 2 (MODY2). Glucokinase inhibitors and activators are being explored as potential therapeutic agents for modulating glucose levels in diabetics. Additionally its role interfaces with the functions of insulin tying glucokinase closely to conditions of insulin resistance and pancreatic dysfunction. Understanding these connections is instrumental for developing targeted treatment strategies.