fumarátová

Fumarate is the ionized form of fumaric acid, a dicarboxylic acid with the chemical formula C4H4O4. It is a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle or TCA cycle, a central metabolic pathway in aerobic respiration. In this cycle, fumarate is produced from succinate and is then converted to malate by the enzyme fumarase. This conversion is a reversible hydration reaction.

Fumarate plays a role in various biological processes beyond the citric acid cycle. It is also involved in the urea cycle, where it is produced from argininosuccinate. Additionally, fumarate is a substrate for the enzyme fumarase hydratase, which is important for the metabolism of certain amino acids and for the detoxification of ammonia.

Outside of biological systems, fumaric acid and its salts, including fumarates, have industrial applications. Fumaric acid is used as a food additive (E297) to regulate acidity and as a flavoring agent. It is also employed in the manufacturing of resins, printing inks, and pharmaceuticals. Some fumarate salts, such as calcium fumarate and iron fumarate, are used as dietary supplements to provide essential minerals. The compound's presence in biological systems and its industrial utility highlight its significance.