What is futile cycle?

Answer 1

A futile cycle refers to a metabolic pathway where a series of enzymatic reactions occur that do not lead to a net production of useful energy or biomolecules. Instead, the cycle continuously consumes energy without yielding any beneficial outcome, often resulting in a waste of resources. This process can play roles in regulating metabolic pathways, maintaining homeostasis, or generating heat in organisms. An example is the simultaneous activation of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, which can lead to energy expenditure without productive output.