Question

Propose a mechanism for the formation of fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate from dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate, using hydroxide ion as the catalyst.

Short answer

An enzyme called aldolase catalyzes a crossed aldol addition between dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glyceraldehyde3-phosphate. The product formed is fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate. Fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate is formed when two three-carbon compounds are combined together. In this reaction, the electron pushing mechanism is observed.

Step-by-step solution

Step-by-Step SolutionStep 1: Formation of fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate

An enzyme called aldolase catalyzes a crossed aldol addition between dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glyceraldehyde3-phosphate. The product formed is fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate. Fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate is formed when two three-carbon compounds are combined together. In this reaction, the electron pushing mechanism is observed.

Mechanism of the formation of fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate

The product of the reaction contains an asymmetric center. The mechanism of the reaction is as follows.

Mechanism of reaction