Which enzyme is responsible for breaking down glucose-based polysaccharides into glucose 1-phosphate?

The enzyme responsible for breaking down glucose-based polysaccharides into glucose 1-phosphate is phosphorylase. This enzyme catalyzes the phosphorolysis of polysaccharides, particularly glycogen, resulting in the release of glucose 1-phosphate. Phosphorylase works by adding inorganic phosphate to the glucose units of the polysaccharide chains, thereby facilitating the conversion of the polymer into a form that can be easily utilized in metabolic pathways.

Understanding how phosphorylase functions is essential in metabolic processes, particularly in glycogen metabolism, where glucose 1-phosphate is a key intermediate. This form of glucose can then enter glycolysis or serve as a substrate for energy production. Thus, the role of phosphorylase is critical for energy mobilization during periods of high demand, such as during exercise or fasting.

Other choices, while related to carbohydrate metabolism, have different specific functions. For instance, amylase primarily breaks down starch into maltose and dextrins, not directly into glucose 1-phosphate. Glucosidase hydrolyzes glycosidic bonds in disaccharides and oligosaccharides, leading to the formation of free monosaccharides. Cellulase, on the other hand, breaks down cellulose