Fumarase meaning

Fumarase is an enzyme that catalyzes the reversible hydration/dehydration of fumarate to malate in the citric acid cycle.


Fumarase definitions

Word backwards esaramuf
Part of speech Fumarase is a noun.
Syllabic division Fu-ma-rase
Plural The plural of the word fumarase is fumarases.
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) u,a,e
Consonants (4) f,m,r,s

Fumarase, also known as fumarate hydratase, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle. This cycle is essential for the production of energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in our cells. Fumarase specifically catalyzes the conversion of fumarate to malate in this cycle.

Structure of Fumarase

Fumarase is a homotetrameric enzyme, meaning it is made up of four identical subunits. Each subunit contains a catalytic site where the conversion of fumarate to malate takes place. This enzyme requires water as a cofactor to facilitate this conversion.

Function of Fumarase

The main function of fumarase is to participate in the citric acid cycle, where it helps in the conversion of fumarate to malate. This conversion is essential for the production of energy in the form of ATP. Fumarase also plays a role in amino acid metabolism and the regulation of reactive oxygen species in cells.

Deficiency of Fumarase

Fumarase deficiency is a rare genetic disorder that results in a variety of symptoms, including developmental delay, seizures, intellectual disability, and abnormalities in the brain, among others. This deficiency can be diagnosed through genetic testing and may require treatment to manage symptoms.

Role in Cancer

Abnormalities in fumarase have been linked to certain types of cancer, particularly hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC). In HLRCC, mutations in the fumarase gene can lead to the development of tumors in the skin and kidneys. Understanding the role of fumarase in cancer has implications for targeted therapies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fumarase is an important enzyme in the citric acid cycle that is essential for energy production in our cells. Deficiencies in fumarase can lead to serious health conditions, including metabolic disorders and certain types of cancer. Research on fumarase continues to uncover its significance in cellular function and disease, offering insights for potential treatments and therapies.


Fumarase Examples

  1. The enzyme fumarase plays a crucial role in the citric acid cycle.
  2. A deficiency in fumarase activity can lead to a rare genetic disorder known as fumarase deficiency.
  3. Researchers are studying the structure of fumarase to better understand its function.
  4. Fumarase catalyzes the reversible conversion of fumarate to malate.
  5. Mutations in the fumarase gene have been linked to the development of certain types of cancer.
  6. Fumarase inhibitors are being investigated as potential anticancer agents.
  7. Biochemists use fumarase as a model enzyme in enzymology studies.
  8. Patients with fumarase deficiency may experience neurological symptoms such as seizures.
  9. Fumarase activity is regulated by various factors in the cell.
  10. The role of fumarase in cellular metabolism is essential for energy production.


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  • Updated 18/07/2024 - 17:29:31