Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate is a sugar molecule that plays a crucial role in the process of glycolysis, which is how cells break down glucose to produce energy. It is formed from fructose-6-phosphate through the addition of a phosphate group, making it a key intermediate in carbohydrate metabolism. This compound is important for regulating energy production in cells. It acts as an allosteric activator for the enzyme pyruvate kinase, enhancing the conversion of phosphoenolpyruvate to pyruvate. This regulation helps ensure that energy production meets the cell's needs during various metabolic conditions.