mevalonate transport

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The directed movement of mevalonate into, out of or within a cell, or between cells, by means of some agent such as a transporter or pore. [GOC:krc]

Mevalonate transport is a crucial process for the biosynthesis of essential isoprenoids, including cholesterol, steroid hormones, and ubiquinone. Mevalonate, the precursor to these compounds, is synthesized in the cytoplasm and needs to be transported into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) for further processing. This transport is mediated by a specific transporter protein known as MVA transporter (MVA-T), which belongs to the major facilitator superfamily (MFS).

MVA-T facilitates the movement of mevalonate across the ER membrane, utilizing the proton electrochemical gradient. The process involves the binding of mevalonate to MVA-T on the cytoplasmic side of the ER membrane. This binding triggers a conformational change in the transporter, allowing mevalonate to pass through the membrane and enter the ER lumen.

The transport process is highly specific for mevalonate, ensuring that only the correct substrate is transported. This specificity is achieved through the unique interaction between mevalonate and the binding site of MVA-T. The transport is also saturable, meaning that there is a limit to the amount of mevalonate that can be transported per unit time. This saturation is due to the finite number of MVA-T molecules present in the ER membrane.

The efficiency of mevalonate transport is critical for the production of isoprenoids. If mevalonate transport is impaired, the biosynthesis of these essential molecules will be compromised, leading to various cellular dysfunctions. For instance, disruptions in cholesterol biosynthesis can lead to hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular disease. Similarly, deficiencies in steroid hormone production can result in hormonal imbalances and reproductive disorders.

In summary, mevalonate transport is a highly regulated process that ensures the efficient delivery of mevalonate into the ER for isoprenoid biosynthesis. This transport process is critical for cellular function and is tightly controlled to meet the demands of the cell.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)