Galacturonokinase

Galacturonokinase is an enzyme that catalyzes the phosphorylation of D-galacturonate to D-galacturonate 1-phosphate. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, specifically in the Uronic acid pathway, which is responsible for the catabolism of sugars containing uronic acids.

Function

Galacturonokinase is involved in the second step of the Uronic acid pathway, where it catalyzes the conversion of D-galacturonate into D-galacturonate 1-phosphate. This reaction involves the transfer of a phosphate group from ATP to D-galacturonate, which is facilitated by the enzyme.

Structure

The structure of galacturonokinase is similar to other kinases, with a large binding pocket for the substrate and a smaller one for the ATP molecule. The enzyme is composed of two domains, a large domain that binds the D-galacturonate and a smaller domain that binds the ATP.

Clinical significance

Deficiencies in galacturonokinase can lead to a buildup of D-galacturonate in the body, which can cause a variety of health problems. However, such deficiencies are extremely rare and not well-studied.

See also

• Uronic acid pathway
• Enzyme
• Carbohydrate metabolism
• Phosphorylation