isoleucine biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of isoleucine, (2R*,3R*)-2-amino-3-methylpentanoic acid. [GOC:ai]

The isoleucine biosynthetic process is a complex metabolic pathway that involves a series of enzymatic reactions to convert pyruvate and α-ketobutyrate into the essential amino acid isoleucine. This process is crucial for protein synthesis and other vital biological functions.

The pathway begins with the condensation of pyruvate and α-ketobutyrate by the enzyme threonine dehydratase, forming α-acetolactate. α-Acetolactate is then decarboxylated to 2-ketobutyrate by the enzyme acetohydroxyacid synthase. The resulting 2-ketobutyrate undergoes a series of enzymatic reactions involving reduction, dehydration, and transamination, ultimately yielding L-isoleucine.

The key enzymes involved in this process include:

- Threonine dehydratase
- Acetohydroxyacid synthase
- Dihydroxyacid dehydratase
- Isomeroreductase
- Isoleucine transaminase

These enzymes are highly regulated and are subject to feedback inhibition by isoleucine itself, ensuring a balanced supply of this essential amino acid.

In addition to its role in protein synthesis, isoleucine also plays a role in energy metabolism and the regulation of gene expression. Deficiencies in isoleucine can lead to various health problems, including growth retardation, muscle weakness, and impaired immune function.

Therefore, the isoleucine biosynthetic process is an essential metabolic pathway for all living organisms.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (1)