Sucrose—1,6-alpha-glucan 3(6)-alpha-glucosyltransferase

Sucrose—1,6-alpha-glucan 3(6)-alpha-glucosyltransferase is an enzyme that catalyzes the chemical reaction of transferring a glucosyl group from sucrose to a 1,6-alpha-glucan, a type of polysaccharide. This enzyme belongs to the family of glycosyltransferase, specifically the hexosyltransferases.

Function

The systematic name of this enzyme class is sucrose:1,6-alpha-D-glucan 3-alpha-D-glucosyltransferase. Other names in common use include dextransucrase, dextransucrase, and Leuconostoc dextransucrase. This enzyme participates in starch and sucrose metabolism.

Sucrose—1,6-alpha-glucan 3(6)-alpha-glucosyltransferase is involved in the synthesis of dextran, a complex branched glucan (polysaccharide made of many glucose molecules). Dextrans are used in many industrial applications, including as a stabilizer for food products, in pharmaceuticals, and in the production of certain types of paper.

Structure

Like all enzymes, Sucrose—1,6-alpha-glucan 3(6)-alpha-glucosyltransferase has a unique three-dimensional structure that allows it to bind to its substrates (sucrose and 1,6-alpha-glucan) and catalyze the transfer of a glucosyl group. This structure is determined by the enzyme's amino acid sequence.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the activity of Sucrose—1,6-alpha-glucan 3(6)-alpha-glucosyltransferase can impact the metabolism of starch and sucrose, potentially leading to metabolic disorders. Further research is needed to fully understand the clinical implications of this enzyme.

See also

• Enzyme
• Glycosyltransferase
• Dextran
• Starch and sucrose metabolism