What Is the Relationship Between Cytoplasm & Glycolysis?

Cytosol

• The cytosol is the cytoplasm or "soup" located outside of the organelles (structures within a cell that perform specific functions). This makes the cytosol the largest structure within a cell. The cytosol contains the cytoskeleton (the structure that gives a cell its shape) and thousands of enzymes that act as a catalyst for glycolysis. So, without the cytosol, glycolysis cannot occur.

Glycolysis

• Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm and does not need oxygen to take place. The process occurs in 10 steps, each using a specific enzyme to take place. For example, in one of the steps, glucose combines with the coenzyme NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) to produce two 3-carbon molecules and two NADH molecules. The end result of glycolysis is two molecules of pyruvate (also called pyruvic acid). The pyruvate enters the Kreb's Cycle, where it is further converted into a more usable form of energy.

Cytoskeleton

• Also important in the process of glycolysis is the cytoskeleton. The cytoskeleton is a structure located in the cytoplasm. The cytoskeleton serves a dual purpose -- for stability because it gives the cell its shape, and for movement. Not only does the cytoskeleton give a cell its shape, it also aids in the organization of the chemical reactions that occur within the cell. The cytoskeleton is comprised of three types of fibers -- microfilaments, microtubules and intermediate filaments.

Other Cellular Organelles

• Eukaryotic cells also contain the following structures: mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), Golgi apparatus, ribosomes, vacuole and chloroplasts. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, since they convert oxygen and nutrients into energy for the cell. The ER manufactures, processes and transports chemical compounds for the cell's use. The Golgi apparatus distributes the chemical products that the ER makes, as well as modifying proteins made in the ER. The ribosomes consist of RNA (ribonucleic acid) and protein. Vacuoles are only found in plant cells and maintain the shape and structure of the cell. Chloroplasts are the catalyst for photosynthesis and consists of an outer membrane, an inner membrane and an inner section called the stroma.