transferáz

Transferase is a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of a functional group from one molecule to another. This functional group can be a methyl group, an acyl group, a phosphate group, or other chemical moieties. Transferases are essential for a vast array of biochemical processes within living organisms, playing critical roles in metabolism, signal transduction, and the synthesis of biomolecules.

These enzymes are broadly classified into ten major subclasses based on the type of functional group they transfer and the molecule they transfer it to. For example, methyltransferases add methyl groups, kinases add phosphate groups, and acyltransferases add acyl groups. The reaction typically involves a donor molecule that carries the functional group and an acceptor molecule that receives it. The result of the transferase-catalyzed reaction is the formation of two new molecules: the product derived from the acceptor and the modified donor.

The activity of transferases is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis. They are involved in energy metabolism by catalyzing the transfer of phosphate groups in processes like glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation. They also play a vital role in the synthesis and modification of DNA and RNA, as well as in the synthesis of proteins and lipids. Dysregulation of transferase activity can lead to various diseases, highlighting their importance in health and disease. Their study is a fundamental aspect of biochemistry and molecular biology.