Sulfurtransferase

Sulfurtransferase is a type of enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of organisms. These enzymes are involved in the transfer of a sulfur atom from one molecule to another. Sulfurtransferases are part of a larger group of enzymes known as transferases, which are responsible for transferring a functional group from one molecule to another.

Function

Sulfurtransferases are involved in a variety of biological processes, including the synthesis of amino acids, vitamins, and cofactors. They also play a role in the detoxification of certain compounds in the body. The activity of sulfurtransferases can be influenced by various factors, including the availability of sulfur-containing substrates and the presence of other enzymes.

Types

There are several types of sulfurtransferases, each with a specific function. These include:

• Rhodanese: This enzyme is involved in the detoxification of cyanide in the body. It transfers a sulfur atom from a thiosulfate molecule to a cyanide molecule, converting it into a less toxic compound.

• Cysteine desulfurase: This enzyme is involved in the synthesis of the amino acid cysteine. It removes a sulfur atom from a cysteine molecule and transfers it to a serine molecule.

• Molybdenum cofactor sulfurtransferase: This enzyme is involved in the synthesis of the molybdenum cofactor, a molecule that is essential for the activity of certain enzymes.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the activity of sulfurtransferases can lead to various health conditions. For example, mutations in the gene encoding molybdenum cofactor sulfurtransferase can cause molybdenum cofactor deficiency, a rare and severe neurological disorder. Similarly, deficiencies in rhodanese can lead to an increased susceptibility to cyanide poisoning.

See also

• Transferase
• Enzyme
• Metabolism
• Sulfur metabolism

References

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