pyridoxal phosphate metabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways involving pyridoxal phosphate, pyridoxal phosphorylated at the hydroxymethyl group of C-5, the active form of vitamin B6. [GOC:jl]

Pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) metabolic process encompasses a series of interconnected enzymatic reactions that involve the synthesis, interconversion, and degradation of PLP, an essential cofactor for numerous metabolic enzymes. PLP, the active form of vitamin B6, plays a crucial role in a wide range of biological processes, including amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, glycogen metabolism, and heme biosynthesis.

The metabolic pathway of PLP begins with the conversion of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) to pyridoxal, followed by phosphorylation to PLP. This initial step is catalyzed by pyridoxine kinase, an enzyme that utilizes ATP as a phosphate donor. PLP is then utilized by a variety of PLP-dependent enzymes, which catalyze a wide range of reactions, including transamination, decarboxylation, racemization, and elimination.

Transamination reactions involve the transfer of an amino group from one molecule to another. PLP acts as a carrier of the amino group, facilitating the transfer. Decarboxylation reactions remove a carboxyl group from a molecule, typically an amino acid. Racemization reactions involve the conversion of an L-amino acid to its D-isomer. Elimination reactions remove a functional group from a molecule, often resulting in the formation of a double bond.

The degradation of PLP involves the removal of the phosphate group, followed by oxidation to pyridoxic acid. This final step is catalyzed by pyridoxal phosphate phosphatase and pyridoxal oxidase, respectively.

In summary, the pyridoxal phosphate metabolic process involves the synthesis, interconversion, and degradation of PLP, a critical cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in essential biological processes. The pathway involves a series of enzymatic reactions, including phosphorylation, transamination, decarboxylation, racemization, elimination, and oxidation, highlighting the importance of PLP in maintaining cellular homeostasis and supporting various metabolic functions.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (14)