The primary function of Glycine C-Acetyltransferase is to catalyze the reaction between 2-amino-3-ketobutyrate and coenzyme A, resulting in the formation of glycine and acetyl-CoA . This reaction is essential for various metabolic pathways, including the metabolism of amino acids and the development of the nervous system .
The GCAT gene is located on chromosome 22q13.1 . It is a protein-coding gene associated with several diseases, such as rheumatic myocarditis and phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase deficiency . The enzyme is a class II pyridoxal-phosphate-dependent aminotransferase, which means it requires vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5′-phosphate) for its activity .
The enzyme’s role in glycine metabolism is significant, especially in the context of insulin resistance and diabetes. Plasma glycine levels are often lower in patients with obesity or diabetes, and improving insulin resistance can increase glycine concentration . This highlights the enzyme’s potential impact on metabolic health and its relevance in clinical research.
Human recombinant Glycine C-Acetyltransferase is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the human GCAT gene into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or yeast. This allows for the large-scale production of the enzyme for research and therapeutic purposes.