Decarboxylase
Decarboxylase
Decarboxylase (/diːkɑːrˈbɒksɪleɪz/) is an enzyme that catalyzes the decarboxylation process, which involves the removal of a carboxyl group from a molecule.
Etymology
The term "decarboxylase" is derived from the prefix 'de-', meaning removal, and 'carboxylase', which refers to the enzyme that adds a carboxyl group. Thus, decarboxylase signifies the removal of a carboxyl group.
Function
Decarboxylases play a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids. They are involved in the synthesis of various important substances in the body, including neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, and hormones such as insulin.
Types
There are several types of decarboxylases, each acting on a specific substrate. Some of the most common ones include:
- Pyruvate decarboxylase: This enzyme is involved in the decarboxylation of pyruvate, a key step in the fermentation process.
- Histidine decarboxylase: This enzyme catalyzes the decarboxylation of histidine to form histamine.
- Glutamate decarboxylase: This enzyme is responsible for the decarboxylation of glutamate to form gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Clinical Significance
Abnormalities in the function of decarboxylases can lead to various medical conditions. For instance, a deficiency in dopa decarboxylase can result in DOPA-responsive dystonia, a rare neurological disorder. Similarly, overactivity of ornithine decarboxylase is associated with certain types of cancer.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Decarboxylase
- Wikipedia's article - Decarboxylase
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