In the case of gestational diabetes, which enzyme likely has decreased activity due to elevated glucose levels?

In the context of gestational diabetes, elevated glucose levels can lead to alterations in the activity of certain enzymes involved in glucose metabolism. Glucokinase is particularly relevant here because it plays a crucial role in regulating glucose levels in the liver and pancreas.

Glucokinase functions as a sensor for glucose and is responsible for phosphorylating glucose to glucose-6-phosphate, which is a key step in facilitating glucose uptake and metabolism. In a state of insulin resistance, which is often present in gestational diabetes, the activity of glucokinase can decrease. When glucose levels rise significantly, the body may not respond appropriately, leading to insufficient phosphorylation of glucose, which in turn can exacerbate hyperglycemia.

Therefore, the decrease in glucokinase activity in response to elevated glucose levels is consistent with the mechanisms of insulin resistance, making this enzyme's dysregulation a significant factor in the pathology of gestational diabetes.