Description
Hexokinase is the first enzyme in the glycolytic pathway, catalyzing the transfer of a phosphoryl group from ATP to glucose to form glucose-6-phosphate and ADP. In mammals, four distinct enzymes-types 1 to 4 hexokinases-have been identified. The enzyme is found in most cells, but there is tissue specificity for the particular type of hexokinase. Hexokinase4 is found in the liver and pancreatic beta-cells, where it is controlled by insulin (activation) and glucagon (inhibition). In pancreatic beta-cells, type IV enzyme acts as a glucose sensor to modify insulin secretion. Hexokinase4 is commonly called 'glucokinase'