PRPP synthetase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the synthesis of 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP), a key molecule in nucleotide and amino acid metabolism. It catalyzes the reaction between ribose-5-phosphate and ATP, producing PRPP and AMP. This process is essential for the formation of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. The activity of PRPP synthetase is tightly regulated to ensure proper cellular function. It is influenced by various factors, including the availability of substrates and the concentration of nucleotides. Dysregulation of this enzyme can lead to metabolic disorders, highlighting its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis.