5-Hydroxyisourate

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

5-Hydroxyisourate[edit | edit source]

The enzymatic reaction involving 5-Hydroxyisourate.

5-Hydroxyisourate is an intermediate compound in the metabolic degradation of uric acid in certain organisms. It is primarily involved in the enzymatic pathway catalyzed by the enzyme urate oxidase, also known as uricase. This pathway is significant in organisms that can further degrade uric acid, unlike humans, who lack the urate oxidase enzyme.

Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]

5-Hydroxyisourate is a derivative of isouric acid, characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group. Its chemical structure allows it to participate in further enzymatic reactions that lead to the production of allantoin, a more soluble compound that can be easily excreted by the organism.

Biological Role[edit | edit source]

In organisms that possess urate oxidase, such as many mammals, birds, and reptiles, 5-Hydroxyisourate plays a crucial role in the catabolism of uric acid. The conversion of uric acid to 5-Hydroxyisourate is the first step in a series of reactions that ultimately lead to the formation of allantoin. This process helps in reducing the concentration of uric acid, thereby preventing the formation of gout and kidney stones.

Enzymatic Pathway[edit | edit source]

The enzymatic conversion of uric acid to 5-Hydroxyisourate is catalyzed by urate oxidase. This enzyme facilitates the oxidation of uric acid, incorporating molecular oxygen into the substrate to form 5-Hydroxyisourate. The reaction can be summarized as follows:

Uric acid + O_ _ 5-Hydroxyisourate + H_O_

Following its formation, 5-Hydroxyisourate is further processed by other enzymes, such as 5-hydroxyisourate hydrolase, to eventually yield allantoin.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The absence of urate oxidase in humans and some other primates is a result of evolutionary gene loss. This absence is associated with higher levels of uric acid in the blood, which can lead to hyperuricemia and related disorders. Understanding the role of 5-Hydroxyisourate in uric acid metabolism can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for managing conditions like gout.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
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's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD