HMG-CoA reductase

HMG-CoA reductase (pronounced as H-M-G Co-A reductase) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of lipids, specifically in the mevalonate pathway, which is responsible for the production of cholesterol and other important biomolecules.

Etymology

The term "HMG-CoA reductase" is an abbreviation for 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase. The name is derived from its function: it reduces HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a necessary step in the production of cholesterol.

Function

HMG-CoA reductase is the rate-controlling enzyme of the mevalonate pathway. It catalyzes the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate. This step is critical in the biosynthesis of cholesterol, as well as other essential biomolecules such as isoprenoids, dolichols, and coenzyme Q10.

Clinical significance

Inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase, commonly known as statins, are widely used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels). By inhibiting this enzyme, statins reduce the production of cholesterol, thereby lowering blood cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Related terms

Enzyme: A protein that catalyzes a specific biochemical reaction.
Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.
Lipid: A type of organic molecule that is insoluble in water but soluble in nonpolar organic solvents.
Mevalonate pathway: A metabolic pathway that produces cholesterol and other isoprenoids.
Cholesterol: A type of lipid molecule that is biosynthesized by all animal cells.
Statins: A class of drugs used to lower cholesterol levels.
Hypercholesterolemia: A condition characterized by very high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
Cardiovascular disease: A class of diseases that involve the heart or blood vessels.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on HMG-CoA reductase
Wikipedia's article - HMG-CoA reductase

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HMG-CoA reductase