Phosphomutase
Phosphomutase is an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of a phosphate group within a molecule. This process is essential for the conversion of glucose-1-phosphate to glucose-6-phosphate, which plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism. Phosphomutases are found in various organisms, including bacteria and mammals, and are vital for energy production and storage.
The enzyme operates by temporarily adding a phosphate group to its substrate, creating a phosphoenzyme intermediate. This intermediate then facilitates the transfer of the phosphate group to a different position on the substrate. This mechanism is important for regulating metabolic pathways and maintaining cellular energy balance.