Arylsulfatase

Arylsulfatase

Crystal structure of Arylsulfatase

Arylsulfatase is a type of enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of sulfate esters from aromatic compounds. These enzymes are crucial in the metabolism of sulfated molecules, which are found in various biological systems.

Function

Arylsulfatases are involved in the breakdown of sulfate esters, which are compounds that contain a sulfate group attached to an aromatic ring. This process is essential for the degradation of complex molecules such as glycosaminoglycans and sulfatides, which are important components of the extracellular matrix and cell membranes.

Structure

Arylsulfatases typically have a conserved active site that binds to the sulfate ester substrate. The enzyme catalyzes the cleavage of the sulfate group, releasing the aromatic compound and a free sulfate ion. The crystal structure of arylsulfatase, as shown in the image, reveals a complex folding pattern that is characteristic of this enzyme family.

Types

There are several types of arylsulfatases, each with specific substrate preferences and tissue distributions. Some of the well-known arylsulfatases include:

• Arylsulfatase A: Found in the lysosome, it is involved in the degradation of cerebroside sulfate.
• Arylsulfatase B: Also located in the lysosome, it acts on dermatan sulfate.
• Arylsulfatase C: Known as steroid sulfatase, it is involved in the metabolism of steroid sulfates.

Clinical Significance

Deficiencies in arylsulfatase activity can lead to various metabolic disorders. For example, a deficiency in arylsulfatase A results in metachromatic leukodystrophy, a genetic disorder that affects the nervous system.

Related pages

• Enzyme
• Sulfate ester
• Metachromatic leukodystrophy
• Glycosaminoglycan

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  Arylsulfatase