Prenylöinti

Prenylöinti is a biochemical process involving the addition of a prenyl group to a molecule. A prenyl group is a five-carbon isoprenoid unit, specifically an alkyl group derived from isoprene. This addition is typically catalyzed by enzymes called prenyltransferases. These enzymes play crucial roles in the modification of various biomolecules, including proteins, lipids, and small molecules.

In protein prenylation, prenyl groups are attached to cysteine residues at or near the C-terminus of proteins. This modification is essential for the proper localization, function, and stability of many proteins, particularly those involved in signal transduction pathways like Ras and Rho GTPases. The two main types of protein prenylation are farnesylation and geranylgeranylation, which differ in the length of the prenyl chain added.

Prenylöinti also occurs in the biosynthesis of natural products, such as flavonoids and alkaloids. In these cases, prenyl groups can be added to aromatic rings or other positions on the molecule, altering its chemical properties and biological activities. This modification can enhance lipophilicity, influence receptor binding, or contribute to antimicrobial or antioxidant properties. The study of prenylöinti is important for understanding cellular processes and for the development of new therapeutic agents.