L-fucose catabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the breakdown of L-fucose (6-deoxy-Lgalactose). [GOC:jl]

The L-fucose catabolic process is a critical pathway for the breakdown of L-fucose, a sugar commonly found in various biological molecules, such as glycoproteins and glycolipids. This process begins with the phosphorylation of L-fucose by the enzyme L-fucose kinase, which converts L-fucose to L-fucose-1-phosphate. L-fucose-1-phosphate is then isomerized to L-fuculose-1-phosphate by L-fucose-1-phosphate aldolase. This aldolase cleaves the carbon-carbon bond between the first and second carbon atoms of L-fuculose-1-phosphate, generating L-lactaldehyde and dihydroxyacetone phosphate. L-lactaldehyde can be further metabolized through various pathways, including oxidation to L-lactate by L-lactaldehyde dehydrogenase or reduction to L-1,2-propanediol by L-lactaldehyde reductase. Dihydroxyacetone phosphate can then enter glycolysis, a central pathway for energy production in cells. This intricate process ensures the efficient degradation of L-fucose, contributing to the overall metabolic balance of the organism and the recycling of valuable metabolic intermediates.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (12)