ISOCITRATE LYASE Meaning and
Definition
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Isocitrate lyase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the glyoxylate cycle, a metabolic pathway found in certain bacteria, fungi, and plants. Specifically, it catalyzes the reversible cleavage of isocitrate, an intermediate of the citric acid cycle, into glyoxylate and succinate. This process is also known as the isocitrate glyoxylate-lyase reaction.
Isocitrate lyase is an important enzyme as it allows organisms to utilize substrates such as acetate or fatty acids as a source of carbon and energy when glucose is not readily available. This ability is particularly important for microorganisms and plants that colonize nutrient-poor environments, such as soil or decaying organic matter.
The enzyme consists of a single polypeptide chain and requires various cofactors, including magnesium and thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP), in order to catalyze the reaction. Its activity is regulated by both genetic and environmental factors, with increased expression observed under conditions where alternative carbon sources are prevalent.
Understanding the structure, function, and regulation of isocitrate lyase has significant implications in various areas of research. It has been studied extensively in the context of microbial pathogenesis, as the glyoxylate cycle is often associated with virulence and survival of certain bacterial pathogens within the host. Moreover, isocitrate lyase has also been investigated for its potential as a target for the development of novel antimicrobial agents.
Common Misspellings for ISOCITRATE LYASE
- usocitrate lyase
- jsocitrate lyase
- ksocitrate lyase
- osocitrate lyase
- 9socitrate lyase
- 8socitrate lyase
- iaocitrate lyase
- izocitrate lyase
- ixocitrate lyase
- idocitrate lyase
- ieocitrate lyase
- iwocitrate lyase
- isicitrate lyase
- iskcitrate lyase
- islcitrate lyase
- ispcitrate lyase
- is0citrate lyase
- is9citrate lyase
- isoxitrate lyase
- isovitrate lyase
Etymology of ISOCITRATE LYASE
The term "Isocitrate Lyase" has its etymology rooted in its component words: "isocitrate" and "lyase".
1. Isocitrate: The word "isocitrate" is derived from two parts - "iso-" and "citrate". "Iso-" means "equal" or "similar", and "citrate" refers to a type of salt derived from citric acid. Therefore, "isocitrate" can be understood as a compound similar or related to citric acid.
2. Lyase: The term "lyase" comes from the Greek word "lysis", meaning "loosening" or "dissolving". In biological terms, "lyase" refers to an enzyme that catalyzes the breaking of chemical bonds, leading to the formation of new compounds.
