Depyrimidinase

Depyrimidinase is an enzyme that catalyzes the removal of the pyrimidine base from deoxyribonucleosides. Specifically, it acts on deoxycytidine and deoxyuridine. The reaction involves the hydrolysis of the N-glycosidic bond between the deoxyribose sugar and the pyrimidine ring. This process is a key step in the degradation pathway of pyrimidine nucleosides.

The enzyme belongs to the hydrolase class of enzymes and is often referred to as deoxyribonucleoside hydrolase. It plays a role in maintaining the balance of nucleotide pools within cells by breaking down excess or damaged deoxyribonucleosides. The products of depyrimidinase activity are the deoxyribose sugar and the free pyrimidine base.

In some organisms, depyrimidinase activity is essential for DNA repair mechanisms or for salvaging pyrimidine bases for reuse. While its presence and specific function can vary across different species, it is a recognized component of cellular metabolism. Research into depyrimidinase can provide insights into nucleoside metabolism and its implications for various biological processes.