transferasen

Transferases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of functional groups from one molecule to another. These enzymes play a vital role in various biochemical processes, including metabolism, DNA synthesis, and signal transduction. They are categorized under the Enzyme Commission (EC) number 2, with the specific subclass depending on the type of group transferred, such as methyl, acetyl, or phosphate groups.

Typically, transferases facilitate the transfer of groups like amino, acyl, methyl, or phosphoric groups between donor and acceptor molecules. For example, aminotransferases transfer amino groups, essential for amino acid metabolism, while kinase transferases transfer phosphate groups, crucial in energy transfer and signaling pathways. The activity of transferases is often dependent on cofactors such as pyridoxal phosphate, ATP, or metal ions, which assist in the transfer process.

These enzymes are widespread across all domains of life, reflecting their fundamental biological importance. Their dysfunction can be associated with various diseases; for instance, deficiencies in certain transferases are linked to metabolic disorders or cancers. Due to their specificity and significance, transferases are common targets in drug development and biotechnology applications.

Research into transferases has advanced understanding of cellular metabolism and has facilitated the development of enzymes for industrial processes, including biocatalysis and pharmaceutical synthesis. Their study continues to be an important area in enzymology, contributing to insights into enzyme mechanisms and the evolution of metabolic networks.