Methylguanidinase

Methylguanidinase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of methylguanidine, a compound that can accumulate in the body under certain pathological conditions. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the metabolism of methylguanidine, helping to maintain the balance of this compound in the body.

Function

Methylguanidinase is involved in the breakdown of methylguanidine, a compound that can be toxic if it accumulates in the body. This enzyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of methylguanidine to urea and ammonia, which are less harmful and can be easily excreted by the body.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of methylguanidinase can lead to an accumulation of methylguanidine in the body, which can cause various health problems. For example, high levels of methylguanidine have been associated with chronic kidney disease and uremia. In these conditions, the kidneys are unable to properly excrete waste products, leading to an accumulation of toxins in the body.

Structure and mechanism

Methylguanidinase is a protein that is composed of several amino acids. The exact structure and mechanism of this enzyme are not fully understood, but it is believed to function by binding to methylguanidine and catalyzing its breakdown into urea and ammonia.

See also

• Enzyme
• Methylguanidine
• Hydrolysis
• Metabolism
• Chronic kidney disease
• Uremia