oxalate metabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways involving oxalate, the organic acid ethanedioate. [GOC:mlg]

The oxalate metabolic process is a complex and essential biological pathway involved in the production and breakdown of oxalate, a dicarboxylic acid found in many plants and animals. Oxalate is a highly polar molecule with a strong affinity for calcium, which can lead to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, a common component of kidney stones. The process encompasses various biochemical reactions catalyzed by specific enzymes, including:

1. **Oxalate synthesis:**

- **Glycolate oxidation:** Glycolate, a product of photorespiration, is oxidized to glyoxylate by glycolate oxidase.
- **Glyoxylate oxidation:** Glyoxylate can be further oxidized to oxalate by glyoxylate oxidase or lactate dehydrogenase.
- **Hydroxyproline degradation:** The degradation of hydroxyproline, an amino acid found in collagen, produces glyoxylate as an intermediate, leading to oxalate synthesis.

2. **Oxalate degradation:**

- **Oxalate decarboxylase:** Oxalate decarboxylase catalyzes the decarboxylation of oxalate to formate and carbon dioxide. This enzyme is found in certain bacteria, fungi, and plants, but not in mammals.

3. **Oxalate transport and excretion:**

- **Renal excretion:** Oxalate is primarily excreted through the kidneys.
- **Biliary excretion:** Some oxalate can be excreted in bile.

The oxalate metabolic process is tightly regulated to prevent the accumulation of oxalate and the formation of kidney stones. Several factors can influence oxalate metabolism, including diet, genetics, and gut microbiota. High dietary intake of oxalate-rich foods, such as spinach, rhubarb, and chocolate, can increase oxalate levels. Genetic variations in genes involved in oxalate metabolism can also contribute to oxalate accumulation. The gut microbiota can influence oxalate metabolism by producing enzymes that can degrade or synthesize oxalate.

Oxalate metabolism is crucial for maintaining health and preventing the formation of kidney stones. Understanding this complex pathway is essential for developing strategies to manage oxalate-related conditions.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)