Phosphatase
Phosphatase
Phosphatase (pronounced /ˈfɒsfəteɪz/) is a type of enzyme that removes a phosphate group from its substrate by hydrolysing phosphoric acid monoesters into a phosphate ion and a molecule with a free hydroxyl group (-OH). This process is known as dephosphorylation.
Etymology
The term "Phosphatase" is derived from the chemical compound it acts upon, namely phosphate. The suffix "-ase" is used in biochemistry to denote an enzyme.
Types of Phosphatases
Phosphatases are classified into two main types: Protein Phosphatases and Alkaline Phosphatases.
- Protein Phosphatases are enzymes that remove a phosphate group from a protein molecule, a process that is integral to many cellular functions.
- Alkaline Phosphatases are a group of enzymes found primarily in the liver and bone, and are most effective in an alkaline environment.
Function
Phosphatases play a crucial role in many biological functions, including cell signaling, metabolism, and protein regulation. They are involved in the process of turning off signal transduction pathways when they are no longer needed.
Related Terms
- Phosphorylation: The process of adding a phosphate group to a molecule, often a protein. This is often performed by an enzyme called a kinase.
- Kinase: An enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of phosphate groups from high-energy, phosphate-donating molecules to specific substrates.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phosphatase
- Wikipedia's article - Phosphatase
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