METHIONINE SYNTHASE Meaning and
Definition
-
Methionine synthase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the biochemical process known as methylation. It is an essential enzyme required for the conversion of homocysteine, an amino acid, to methionine, another amino acid. This conversion is necessary for the proper functioning of various biological processes and is important for overall health.
The methionine synthase enzyme is responsible for catalyzing the transfer of a methyl group (CH3) from a compound called methyltetrahydrofolate (MTHF) onto homocysteine. This reaction is an integral part of the methionine cycle, which is involved in several vital processes such as synthesis of DNA and RNA, production of proteins, and regulation of gene expression. Methionine itself is crucial for the formation of many important molecules in the body, including vitamins, hormones, and neurotransmitters.
Deficiencies or mutations in the methionine synthase enzyme can lead to a condition called homocystinuria. This condition is characterized by elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood, which can have detrimental effects on various body systems. Symptoms may include intellectual disability, visual impairment, skeletal abnormalities, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
In summary, methionine synthase is an enzyme that facilitates the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, an amino acid essential for numerous biological processes. Its important role in methylation and overall health make it a key enzyme in maintaining proper cellular functions.
Common Misspellings for METHIONINE SYNTHASE
- nethionine synthase
- kethionine synthase
- jethionine synthase
- mwthionine synthase
- msthionine synthase
- mdthionine synthase
- mrthionine synthase
- m4thionine synthase
- m3thionine synthase
- merhionine synthase
- mefhionine synthase
- meghionine synthase
- meyhionine synthase
- me6hionine synthase
- me5hionine synthase
- metgionine synthase
- metbionine synthase
- metnionine synthase
- metjionine synthase
- metuionine synthase
Etymology of METHIONINE SYNTHASE
The word "Methionine Synthase" has its origins in both Greek and Latin.
The term "Methionine" comes from the Greek word "methy", meaning "wine", and "onos", meaning "water". This name was given to the amino acid "methionine" because it was first isolated from proteins of fermented wine by J. Akabori and S. Sugiki in 1921.
The word "Synthase" originates from the Latin word "synthesis", which means "putting together" or "to make". In the context of biology, "synthase" refers to an enzyme that catalyzes a synthesis reaction.
Therefore, the term "Methionine Synthase" refers to the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of methionine, an essential amino acid in organisms.
