Leucyltransferase

Leucyltransferase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the protein synthesis process in the cell. It is responsible for the transfer of leucine, an amino acid, to the growing polypeptide chain during translation.

Function

Leucyltransferase, also known as Leucyl-tRNA synthetase, is part of the aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase family. These enzymes are responsible for attaching specific amino acids to their corresponding tRNA molecules, a critical step in the protein synthesis process. Leucyltransferase specifically attaches the amino acid leucine to its corresponding tRNA molecule, tRNA^Leu.

Structure

The structure of leucyltransferase is complex and consists of several domains, including a catalytic domain and an anticodon binding domain. The catalytic domain is responsible for the enzyme's catalytic activity, while the anticodon binding domain recognizes and binds to the anticodon of the tRNA^Leu molecule.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the gene encoding leucyltransferase can lead to various diseases. For example, a mutation in this gene has been associated with Leukoencephalopathy with brain stem and spinal cord involvement and lactate elevation (LBSL), a rare genetic disorder affecting the central nervous system.

See also

• Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase
• Leucine
• Protein synthesis
• Translation (biology)