Prostaglandin F synthase

Prostaglandin F synthase (PGFS) is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the AKR1C3 gene. It is involved in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds that have diverse roles in the body, including the regulation of inflammation, blood flow, and hormone production.

Function

PGFS is a member of the aldo-keto reductase (AKR) superfamily and catalyzes the conversion of prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) to prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α). This reaction is a key step in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins. PGF2α is involved in various physiological processes, including the regulation of uterine contractions during pregnancy and the induction of labor.

Structure

The AKR1C3 gene, which encodes PGFS, is located on chromosome 10 in humans. The enzyme itself is a monomer with a molecular weight of approximately 37 kDa. It contains a Rossmann fold, a structural motif found in proteins that bind nucleotides.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the activity of PGFS have been implicated in various diseases. For example, increased PGFS activity has been associated with endometriosis, a condition characterized by the growth of uterine tissue outside the uterus. In addition, PGFS has been suggested as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of cancer, as it is overexpressed in several types of tumors.

See also

• Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase
• Prostaglandin D synthase
• Prostaglandin E synthase