MALATE SYNTHETASE Meaning and
Definition
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Malate synthetase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolic pathways of organisms. It is responsible for catalyzing the reversible condensation reaction between malate and acetyl-CoA, yielding pyruvate and CoA-SH as products. This reaction is a critical step in several metabolic processes, including the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle) and gluconeogenesis.
The enzyme is typically found in the cytoplasm of cells, particularly in organisms such as bacteria, yeast, and plants. It is encoded by the malate synthetase gene and is highly conserved across different species.
The catalytic activity of malate synthetase is vital in regenerating oxaloacetate, an intermediate in the TCA cycle. By converting malate and acetyl-CoA to pyruvate and CoA-SH, the enzyme allows for the replenishment of oxaloacetate, which is an essential component in maintaining the continuous flow of the TCA cycle and energy production.
Malate synthetase is also an integral part of gluconeogenesis, a process that helps organisms generate glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. By providing a mechanism for the conversion of malate and acetyl-CoA into pyruvate, the enzyme contributes to the synthesis of glucose molecules that can be used as a fuel source during times of low blood glucose levels.
Overall, malate synthetase is a key enzyme involved in central metabolic pathways, facilitating the interconversion of metabolites and contributing to the generation of energy and important metabolites necessary for the proper functioning of cells and organisms.
Common Misspellings for MALATE SYNTHETASE
- nalate synthetase
- kalate synthetase
- jalate synthetase
- mzlate synthetase
- mslate synthetase
- mwlate synthetase
- mqlate synthetase
- makate synthetase
- mapate synthetase
- maoate synthetase
- malzte synthetase
- malste synthetase
- malwte synthetase
- malqte synthetase
- malare synthetase
- malafe synthetase
- malage synthetase
- malaye synthetase
- mala6e synthetase
- mala5e synthetase
Etymology of MALATE SYNTHETASE
The word "malate synthetase" is a scientific term that is derived from two parts: "malate" and "synthetase".
1. Malate: The word "malate" comes from the Latin word "malum", which means "apple". Malic acid, a dicarboxylic acid, was first isolated from apple juice, hence its name. Malate is a derivative of malic acid, and it is an intermediate molecule involved in many metabolic processes in living organisms.
2. Synthetase: The term "synthetase" is used to categorize a group of enzymes that catalyze the synthesis of particular molecules. The term is derived from the Greek words "synthesis", meaning "to put together", and "-ase", which is a suffix used to indicate an enzyme.
