Lysine decarboxylase

Lysine Decarboxylase

Lysine decarboxylase is an enzyme that catalyzes the decarboxylation of lysine to produce cadaverine, a process that is important in various biological systems. This enzyme is part of the group of decarboxylases, which are enzymes that remove a carboxyl group from amino acids, releasing carbon dioxide.

Function

Lysine decarboxylase plays a crucial role in the metabolism of lysine, an essential amino acid that must be obtained from the diet. The enzyme facilitates the conversion of lysine into cadaverine, a biogenic amine that is involved in cellular processes such as cell growth and differentiation.

Mechanism

The enzyme operates by binding to lysine and facilitating the removal of the carboxyl group, resulting in the formation of cadaverine and the release of carbon dioxide. This reaction is an example of a decarboxylation process, which is common in the metabolism of amino acids.

Biological Significance

Cadaverine, the product of the lysine decarboxylase reaction, is involved in various physiological processes. It is known to play a role in bacterial biofilm formation and can act as a signaling molecule in some organisms. In humans, cadaverine is found in small amounts and is associated with the breakdown of proteins during decomposition.

Clinical Relevance

Abnormal activity of lysine decarboxylase can be associated with certain medical conditions. For example, excessive production of cadaverine can lead to halitosis (bad breath) and other metabolic disorders. Understanding the regulation of this enzyme is important for developing treatments for such conditions.

Related Enzymes

Lysine decarboxylase is part of a larger family of decarboxylases that act on different amino acids. Other related enzymes include ornithine decarboxylase, which converts ornithine to putrescine, another biogenic amine.

Related Pages

• Amino acid metabolism
• Decarboxylation
• Biogenic amine
• Enzyme