Enzymes
Product List
UROD Human
Uroporphyrinogen Decarboxylase Human Recombinant
Introduction
Decarboxylases, also known as carboxy-lyases, are enzymes that catalyze the removal of a carboxyl group from organic compounds, releasing carbon dioxide (CO₂). These enzymes are classified under the EC number 4.1.1 and are further categorized based on the substrate they act upon. For example, pyruvate decarboxylase catalyzes the decarboxylation of pyruvate . Other notable examples include aromatic-L-amino-acid decarboxylase, glutamate decarboxylase, and histidine decarboxylase .
Decarboxylases exhibit diverse biological properties, including specific expression patterns and tissue distribution. For instance, aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylases (AADCs) are ubiquitously found in higher organisms due to their role in synthesizing neurotransmitters and alkaloids . These enzymes are expressed in various tissues, including the brain, liver, and kidneys, and are involved in critical physiological processes .
The primary biological functions of decarboxylases include the conversion of amino acids into neurotransmitters and other biologically active amines. For example, AADCs convert aromatic L-amino acids into monoamines such as dopamine and serotonin, which serve as major neurotransmitters in animals . Additionally, decarboxylases play a role in immune responses and pathogen recognition by participating in the synthesis of biogenic amines that modulate immune cell activity .
Decarboxylases interact with other molecules and cells through various mechanisms. These enzymes often require cofactors such as pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (PLP) or pyruvic acid to facilitate the decarboxylation reaction . The binding of these cofactors to the enzyme’s active site enables the stabilization of reaction intermediates and the efficient conversion of substrates into products . Downstream signaling cascades triggered by the products of decarboxylase activity can influence cellular processes such as neurotransmission and metabolic regulation .
The expression and activity of decarboxylases are tightly regulated through multiple mechanisms. Transcriptional regulation involves the control of gene expression by transcription factors that respond to cellular signals . Post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation and acetylation, can modulate enzyme activity and stability . Additionally, feedback inhibition by the end products of decarboxylase reactions can fine-tune enzyme activity to maintain metabolic homeostasis .
Decarboxylases have significant applications in biomedical research, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic strategies. In research, these enzymes are used to study metabolic pathways and the synthesis of neurotransmitters . Diagnostic tools leverage decarboxylase activity to detect metabolic disorders and monitor disease progression . Therapeutically, decarboxylase inhibitors are employed to treat conditions such as Parkinson’s disease by modulating neurotransmitter levels .
Throughout the life cycle, decarboxylases play crucial roles in development, aging, and disease. During development, these enzymes are involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters that regulate neural differentiation and growth . In aging, changes in decarboxylase activity can impact cognitive function and metabolic health . In disease, dysregulation of decarboxylase activity is associated with neurological disorders, metabolic syndromes, and immune dysfunction .
