CYSTATHIONASE Meaning and
Definition
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Cystathionase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of the amino acid methionine and the homocysteine cycle. Specifically, cystathionase facilitates the conversion of cystathionine into cysteine and α-ketobutyrate. This process is a key step in the trans-sulfuration pathway, which allows the body to produce cysteine, an essential amino acid necessary for various biological processes.
Cystathionase is primarily found in the liver and kidneys, although it may be present in other tissues as well. It is classified as a pyridoxal phosphate-dependent enzyme, meaning that it utilizes vitamin B6 as a cofactor to carry out its enzymatic activity. The conversion of cystathionine to cysteine is vital for the synthesis of glutathione, an important antioxidant molecule that protects the cells against oxidative stress.
Deficiencies in cystathionase activity can lead to elevated levels of homocysteine, a condition known as homocystinuria. High levels of homocysteine in the blood can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease, blood clots, and other associated health complications. Therefore, cystathionase plays a critical role in maintaining homocysteine levels within the normal range, promoting overall health and preventing potential health issues.
Further research on cystathionase and its regulatory mechanisms is essential for understanding the interplay between methionine metabolism, cysteine synthesis, and maintaining homocysteine homeostasis in the body.
Common Misspellings for CYSTATHIONASE
- xystathionase
- vystathionase
- fystathionase
- dystathionase
- ctstathionase
- cgstathionase
- chstathionase
- custathionase
- c7stathionase
- c6stathionase
- cyatathionase
- cyztathionase
- cyxtathionase
- cydtathionase
- cyetathionase
- cywtathionase
- cysrathionase
- cysfathionase
- cysgathionase
- cysyathionase
Etymology of CYSTATHIONASE
The word "Cystathionase" is derived from two components: "cystathion" and the suffix "-ase".
1. Cystathion: The term "cystathion" comes from the combination of two words: "cysteine" and "homocysteine".
- Cysteine: It refers to an amino acid that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and is found in many proteins throughout the body. The term "cysteine" comes from the Latin word "cysteīnus", which is derived from the Greek word "kusteinon", meaning "bladder" or "cyst", due to its presence in bladder stones.
- Homocysteine: It is another amino acid that is generated as an intermediate during the metabolism of methionine, an essential amino acid in humans.
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