Hexokinase II is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism. It catalyzes the conversion of glucose into glucose-6-phosphate, which is an essential step in the process of energy production within cells. This enzyme is particularly important in tissues that require high levels of glucose, such as muscle and fat cells. Hexokinase II is one of several isoforms of hexokinase, with its activity being regulated by the availability of glucose and the energy needs of the cell. It is often associated with cancer cells, which tend to rely on increased glucose uptake for rapid growth and proliferation, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect.