Karboksilaz

Karboksilaz is a general term for enzymes that catalyze the addition or removal of a carboxyl group (COOH) from a molecule. These enzymes are crucial in a wide variety of metabolic pathways across all domains of life, playing roles in biosynthesis, degradation, and energy production. They are often classified based on the specific reaction they catalyze. For example, carboxylases add carbon dioxide to a substrate, while decarboxylases remove it. This class of enzymes typically requires cofactors such as biotin or vitamin B12, depending on the specific mechanism. The precise function and substrate specificity of a karboksilaz are determined by its unique three-dimensional structure, which forms an active site that binds the substrate and facilitates the chemical transformation. Disruptions in karboksilaz activity can lead to various metabolic disorders, highlighting their essential roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis.