PKM2 is an isoenzyme of the glycolytic enzyme pyruvate kinase. PKM2 is expressed in most human tumors. Initially, a switch from PKM1 to PKM2 expression during tumorigenesis was discussed. PKM2 plays a key role in modulating glucose metabolism to support cell proliferation. PKM2, like other PK isoforms, catalyzes the last energy-generating step in glycolysis, but is unique in its capacity to be regulated. With the yeast two-hybrid system, gonococcal Opa proteins were found to interact with PKM2. The results suggest that direct molecular interaction with the host metabolic enzyme PKM2 is required for the acquisition of pyruvate and for gonococcal growth and survival.
