L-serine metabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways involving L-serine, the L-enantiomer of serine, i.e. (2S)-2-amino-3-hydroxypropanoic acid. [GOC:ai, GOC:jsg]

L-serine metabolism is a central metabolic pathway in all living organisms. It involves the synthesis and breakdown of L-serine, an amino acid that plays crucial roles in various cellular functions. The pathway is intricately connected with other metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the biosynthesis of other amino acids.

**Biosynthesis of L-serine:**

* **From 3-phosphoglycerate:** L-serine can be synthesized from 3-phosphoglycerate, an intermediate in glycolysis, through a series of enzymatic reactions. This pathway is primarily found in bacteria and plants.
* **From glycine:** In mammals, L-serine is primarily synthesized from glycine through the serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) reaction. This reaction requires tetrahydrofolate (THF) as a cofactor.
* **From phosphohydroxypyruvate:** L-serine can also be synthesized from phosphohydroxypyruvate, a precursor of glycine, through the enzyme phosphoserine aminotransferase.

**Catabolism of L-serine:**

* **Glycolysis:** L-serine can be broken down to pyruvate, an important intermediate in glycolysis, via the enzyme serine dehydratase.
* **One-carbon metabolism:** L-serine can donate its one-carbon unit to THF, producing glycine and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate. This reaction is catalyzed by SHMT and is essential for the synthesis of purines, thymine, and other important molecules.
* **Other pathways:** L-serine can also be utilized in the synthesis of other amino acids, such as cysteine and tryptophan.

**Regulation of L-serine metabolism:**

* The biosynthesis and breakdown of L-serine are tightly regulated to maintain a balance in its intracellular concentration.
* Factors that influence the regulation include the availability of substrates, the activity of enzymes, and the cellular demand for L-serine.
* Dysregulation of L-serine metabolism has been linked to several diseases, including cancer, neurodevelopmental disorders, and metabolic disorders.

**Biological significance of L-serine metabolism:**

* L-serine is a precursor to many important biomolecules, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.
* It plays a vital role in cellular signaling and neurotransmission.
* It is essential for maintaining the integrity of the cell membrane and for the proper functioning of the immune system.

**Overall, L-serine metabolism is a complex and crucial process that is involved in various aspects of cell biology. Its dysregulation can lead to a range of diseases, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy L-serine balance.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (27)