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Figure 8.18 Feedback Inhibition of Metabolic Pathways (A) The first reaction in a metabolic pathway is referred to as the commitment step. It is often catalyzed by an enzyme that can be allosterically inhibited by the end product of the pathway. The specific pathway shown here is the synthesis of purine nucleotides (ATP, GTP) from ribose 5-phosphate in humans. (B) Gout, an accumulation of crystals in joints caused by an excess of purines, can occur if there is a failure of feedback inhibition.