Snitrosyltransferases

Snitrosyltransferases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of a nitroso group (NO) from a donor molecule to an acceptor molecule. These enzymes play crucial roles in various biological processes, including signal transduction, immune responses, and cellular defense. The precise identity and function of specific snitrosyltransferases are still areas of active research, but they are generally understood to be involved in regulating the activity of other proteins through reversible S-nitrosylation. S-nitrosylation is a post-translational modification where a nitric oxide moiety is attached to a cysteine residue of a protein. This modification can alter protein structure, function, and localization.

While not a single, well-defined enzyme family in the same way as, for example, kinases, the term "snitrosyltransferases" is used to describe the enzymatic machinery responsible for mediating this NO transfer. Some enzymes have been identified that exhibit such activity, often involving the direct or indirect transfer of NO from small molecules like S-nitrosoglutathione or other nitrosated biomolecules. The biological significance of snitrosyltransferases lies in their ability to control cellular signaling pathways and adapt to oxidative stress. Their dysregulation has been implicated in various diseases, including cardiovascular disorders and neurodegenerative conditions. Further research aims to elucidate the complete repertoire of snitrosyltransferases and their specific substrates to better understand their physiological and pathological roles.