Steady state concentration in glycolysis refers to the constant concentration of intermediates when physical activity level is unchanged, despite the non-equilibrium reactions. ATP is used for ion pumping and signal transduction via kinases. GTP provides energy for tRNA binding in genetic translation. UTP binds to cell surface P2Y receptors. CTP inhibits the enzyme aspartate carbamoyltransferase in pyrimidine biosynthesis.

1. ' Explain what steady state concentration means in the context of glycolysis, i.e., explain how
the concentration of any intermediate in glycolysis stays the same when your physical activity
level doesn't change, but the reactions are not in equilibrium. 5. Everyone has heard of ATP, but
there is also GTP, UTP, and CTP, as well as many others. They are used in the synthesis of
RNA, but have other roles as well. Use any resource you'd like to and give one specific use of
each of these four compounds that is neither part of RNA synthesis nor just a source of energy
for a coupled reaction. 8 7 8
Solution
Q. 2. Use of ATP other than RNA synthesis: The important role of Adenosin Triphosphate
(ATP) is (i) in Na +
/K +
/Ca +2
ion pump system (ii) ATP is involved signal transduction by
serving as substrate for kinases.
Use of GTP (Guanosine-5'-triphosphate) : GTP has an important role in 'Genetic
Translation'. During the elongation stage of translation, GTP is used as an energy source for the
binding of a new amino-bound tRNA to the A site of the ribosome.
Use of UTP (Uridine-5'-triphosphate ) : UTP has an important role in receptor mediation. It is
performed by extracellular binding to the P2Y receptors of cells.
Use of CTP (Cytidine triphosphate): CTP acts as an inhibitor of the enzyme aspartate
carbamoyltransferase, which is used in pyrimidine biosynthesis.