Glucose-1-phosphate is a sugar molecule that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates. It is formed when glucose is phosphorylated, meaning a phosphate group is added to it. This process is important for energy production and storage in living organisms. In the body, glucose-1-phosphate can be converted into glucose-6-phosphate, which is a key intermediate in the glycolysis pathway. This conversion helps in the breakdown of glucose to produce energy. Additionally, glucose-1-phosphate is involved in the synthesis of glycogen, a stored form of glucose in the liver and muscles.