Human GK (Glycerol kinase) knockout HEK-293T cell lysate

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

Glycerol kinase also known as GK or Gyk acts as a catalyst in the phosphorylation of glycerol to glycerol-3-phosphate. This enzymatic activity is important for the utilization of glycerol in metabolic processes. Glycerol kinase is expressed in tissues such as liver kidney and adipose tissue. Its molecular weight varies depending on the species but in humans it is around 60 kDa when analyzed using methods like glycerol SDS PAGE. In human cells like HEK293T reliable detection of glycerol kinase is possible due to its considerable expression.

Biological function summary

The main role of glycerol kinase relates to its function in lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis. It exists as a part of a biochemical pathway but does not typically form a complex with other proteins. Glycerol kinase enables cells to utilize glycerol as an energy source by converting it into glycerol-3-phosphate which feeds into further metabolic pathways. This conversion is essential for the balance of energy supply and the production of triglycerides and phospholipids.

Pathways

Metabolism and energy production heavily rely on the function of glycerol kinase. This enzyme acts within the glycerolipid metabolism and gluconeogenesis pathways. In these pathways it is connected to other enzymes like glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase which further processes the glycerol-3-phosphate produced by glycerol kinase. The enzyme's availability affects the rate of these pathways and in turn influences lipid and glucose metabolism in the body.

Associated diseases and disorders

Glycerol kinase deficiency leads to complex metabolic syndromes such as hyperglycerolemia and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Hyperglycerolemia results from excess glycerol in the blood due to impaired conversion by the enzyme. In congenital adrenal hyperplasia alterations in metabolic function relate to glycerol kinase’s impact on stress response and energy balance. Disorders related to glycerol kinase sometimes involve interactions with other proteins and enzymes involved in broader metabolic processes affecting overall metabolism and physiology.