Karboksylaasi

Karboksylaasi is a general term for enzymes that catalyze the addition of a carboxyl group (COOH) to a substrate. This process is known as carboxylation. Carboxylation reactions are crucial in many biological pathways, including the synthesis of amino acids, fatty acids, and the citric acid cycle. The term is often used interchangeably with carboxylase, with karboksylaasi being the preferred scientific nomenclature in some contexts.

These enzymes often require cofactors such as biotin or manganese ions to facilitate the transfer of the carboxyl group. For instance, acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) is a key enzyme in fatty acid synthesis and utilizes biotin as a cofactor. Pyruvate carboxylase is another important example, involved in gluconeogenesis and the regeneration of oxaloacetate in the citric acid cycle.

The role of karboksylaasi enzymes extends beyond basic metabolism. They are implicated in various physiological processes and are targets for research in areas such as disease treatment and industrial biotechnology. Understanding the mechanisms and regulation of karboksylaasi activity is therefore essential for comprehending a wide range of biochemical processes.