GAL10 is a gene found in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of galactose, a type of sugar. It encodes an enzyme called galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase, which is involved in converting galactose into glucose, allowing yeast to utilize this sugar for energy. The proper functioning of GAL10 is essential for yeast cells to thrive in environments where galactose is present. Mutations in the GAL10 gene can lead to galactosemia, a metabolic disorder in humans, highlighting the importance of this gene in both yeast and human biology.