1,3-Beta-glucan synthase
From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia
1,3-Beta-glucan synthase is an enzyme that catalyzes the chemical reaction which converts UDP-glucose and a 1,3-beta-D-glucan into UDP and a 1,3-beta-D-glucan. This enzyme belongs to the family of glycosyltransferase, specifically the hexosyltransferase. The systematic name of this enzyme class is UDP-glucose:1,3-beta-D-glucan 3-beta-D-glucosyltransferase. Other names in common use include UDP-glucose:1,3-beta-glucan 3-beta-glucosyltransferase, and 1,3-beta-glucan synthetase.
Function[edit | edit source]
1,3-Beta-glucan synthase plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of cell wall in fungi. It is responsible for the synthesis of 1,3-beta-glucan, a major structural component of the fungal cell wall. The enzyme uses UDP-glucose as a substrate to synthesize 1,3-beta-glucan.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The structure of 1,3-Beta-glucan synthase is complex and not fully understood. It is known to be a large, multi-subunit enzyme. The active site of the enzyme is believed to be located on the inner surface of the plasma membrane, where it is able to access its substrate, UDP-glucose.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
1,3-Beta-glucan synthase is a target for antifungal drugs. Inhibition of this enzyme leads to a weakened cell wall and ultimately the death of the fungal cell. Drugs such as Echinocandins work by inhibiting 1,3-beta-glucan synthase.
Etymology[edit | edit source]
The term "1,3-Beta-glucan synthase" is derived from its function. "1,3-Beta-glucan" refers to the type of glucan it synthesizes, and "synthase" is a type of enzyme that catalyzes the joining of two molecules.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
1,3-Beta-glucan synthase Resources | ||
---|---|---|
|
|
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.