D-glucuronate catabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the breakdown of D-glucuronate, the D-enantiomer of glucuronate. [GOC:jl, GOC:jsg, GOC:mah]

The D-glucuronate catabolic process is a crucial metabolic pathway that breaks down D-glucuronate, a derivative of glucose, into simpler molecules. This process occurs in various organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and mammals. Here's a detailed description:

1. **Initial Steps:** The pathway begins with the conversion of D-glucuronate to D-glucuronic acid by an enzyme called glucuronokinase. This step involves the phosphorylation of D-glucuronate, adding a phosphate group to the molecule.

2. **Decarboxylation:** The D-glucuronic acid then undergoes decarboxylation, a process where a carbon dioxide molecule is removed. This reaction is catalyzed by an enzyme called glucuronate decarboxylase, resulting in the formation of L-gulonate.

3. **Dehydration:** L-gulonate is subsequently dehydrated, losing a water molecule, to form L-xylulose. This reaction is facilitated by an enzyme called L-gulonate dehydrogenase.

4. **Isomerization:** L-xylulose is then isomerized to D-xylulose by an enzyme called xylulose isomerase. This step involves the rearrangement of atoms within the molecule, converting it to a different isomeric form.

5. **Pentose Phosphate Pathway:** The D-xylulose produced enters the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), a central metabolic pathway that plays a role in various cellular processes, including the synthesis of NADPH and the production of precursor molecules for nucleotide biosynthesis.

6. **Further Degradation:** Within the PPP, D-xylulose can be further degraded through a series of enzymatic reactions, ultimately yielding intermediates that can be utilized in other metabolic pathways.

Overall, the D-glucuronate catabolic process is an essential metabolic pathway for the degradation of D-glucuronate. It plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism, providing energy and essential precursors for various biosynthetic processes. The pathway also plays a role in detoxification, as glucuronate conjugation is a major mechanism for eliminating harmful substances from the body.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (12)