Is G3P the Same as Pyruvate in Cellular Processes?

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In summary, the Calvin Cycle is a process in photosynthesis that produces a 3 carbon sugar called glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P). This is the same sugar that is produced in glycolysis, but it is not the same as pyruvate. Through a series of chemical reactions, G3P is eventually converted into pyruvate.
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I am reading about the Calvin Cycle in Photosynthesis. My book says that the Calvin Cycle constructs a 3 carbon sugar called glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P) and then it says "You already met G3P in glycolysis. It is the three-carbon sugar formed by the splitting of glucose."

So I'm thinking, wait a minute, that's pyruvate. Are G3P and pyruvate two words for the same thing or is there a difference in the molecules?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
G3P is not pyruvate
After glucose is mobolized by adding phosphate groups and turned into fructosebisphosphate, it is cleaved into dihydroxyacetone phosphate and phosphoglyceraldehyde. Then dihydroxyacetone phosphate is also converted into phosphoglyceraldehyde. The two phosphoglyceraldehyde is then converted to G3P. Through a series of chemical enzymes, G3P is converted into Pyruvate.
 
  • #3
Thanks very much! And it was very kind of you to provide me with the full explanation!
 

What is G3P and Pyruvate in biology?

G3P (glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate) and pyruvate are intermediate molecules in the process of cellular respiration. G3P is produced during the first stage, glycolysis, and pyruvate is produced during the second stage, the Krebs cycle. These molecules play important roles in generating energy for the cell.

How are G3P and Pyruvate related to each other?

G3P is converted into pyruvate during the second half of glycolysis. Pyruvate then enters the Krebs cycle where it is further broken down to release more energy. This process is essential for the production of ATP, the main source of energy for cellular activities.

What are the functions of G3P and Pyruvate?

G3P and pyruvate are both important molecules in the process of cellular respiration. G3P is involved in the production of ATP during glycolysis, while pyruvate is involved in the production of ATP during the Krebs cycle. These molecules also play a role in other biochemical processes within the cell.

What happens to G3P and Pyruvate in anaerobic respiration?

In anaerobic respiration, the process of cellular respiration occurs without the presence of oxygen. In this case, pyruvate is converted into lactic acid or ethanol, depending on the organism. G3P is also converted into different molecules during anaerobic respiration, depending on the type of organism and the conditions.

Why are G3P and Pyruvate important for living organisms?

G3P and pyruvate are important for living organisms because they are essential for the production of energy in the form of ATP. This energy is necessary for all cellular activities and is vital for the survival and functioning of the organism. These molecules also play a role in other biochemical processes and metabolic pathways within the cell.

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