What is the function of glucose-6-phosphatase?

Glucose-6-phosphatase plays a crucial role in the gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis pathways, primarily by hydrolyzing glucose-6-phosphate into free glucose and inorganic phosphate. This action is essential for regulating blood glucose levels, as it allows glucose to be released into the bloodstream when energy is needed.

In the liver and the kidneys, glucose-6-phosphatase serves as the final enzyme of both glycogenolysis (the breakdown of glycogen to glucose) and gluconeogenesis (the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors). Once glucose-6-phosphate is converted into free glucose, it can then be transported out of the cell into the bloodstream, effectively raising blood sugar levels.

This mechanism is particularly important in maintaining glucose homeostasis during fasting states or between meals when blood glucose levels may decrease. Therefore, the function of glucose-6-phosphatase is critical for facilitating the release of free glucose into the cytoplasm and ensuring that glucose is available for metabolic activities when required.