ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase
Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase, commonly known as RuBisCO, is an essential enzyme found in plants, algae, and some bacteria. It plays a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis by catalyzing the conversion of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) and carbon dioxide into two molecules of 3-phosphoglycerate, which are then used to produce glucose and other carbohydrates.
RuBisCO is often considered the most abundant protein on Earth due to its vital function in carbon fixation. However, it can also catalyze a side reaction with oxygen, leading to a process called photorespiration, which can reduce the efficiency of photosynthesis. Understanding RuBisCO's mechanisms is important for improving crop yields and addressing global food security.