Glucuronosyltransferase

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Glucuronosyltransferase is a type of enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of many biomolecules. It is part of the transferase family of enzymes, which are responsible for transferring functional groups from one molecule to another. Specifically, glucuronosyltransferase catalyzes the transfer of the glucuronic acid component of uridine diphosphate glucuronic acid (UDP-glucuronic acid) to a small hydrophobic molecule.

Function[edit | edit source]

Glucuronosyltransferase is involved in the process of glucuronidation, a major part of phase II metabolism. This process increases the solubility of hydrophobic compounds, making them easier to excrete from the body. It is particularly important in the metabolism of drugs and other xenobiotics.

File:Glucuronidation.png
Glucuronidation, the process catalyzed by glucuronosyltransferase.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Glucuronosyltransferases are membrane-bound enzymes located in the endoplasmic reticulum of cells. They are found in many tissues throughout the body, but are particularly abundant in the liver, where they play a key role in detoxification processes.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the genes encoding glucuronosyltransferases can lead to a variety of diseases. For example, a deficiency in the specific glucuronosyltransferase enzyme known as UGT1A1 is responsible for Gilbert's syndrome, a common genetic disorder characterized by mild, non-hemolytic jaundice.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD