dTMP catabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the breakdown of dTMP, deoxyribosylthymine monophosphate. [GOC:go_curators]

The dTMP catabolic process is the breakdown of deoxythymidine monophosphate (dTMP), a nucleotide that is a building block for DNA. This process occurs in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and is essential for maintaining the integrity of DNA and ensuring proper cell function. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. **dTMP Kinase Activity:** dTMP is first phosphorylated to dTDP (deoxythymidine diphosphate) by the enzyme dTMP kinase. This reaction requires ATP as a phosphate donor.

2. **dTDP Kinase Activity:** Next, dTDP is further phosphorylated to dTTP (deoxythymidine triphosphate) by dTDP kinase. This reaction also requires ATP.

3. **Thymidine Phosphorylase Activity:** dTTP can be converted to thymidine (dThd) by the enzyme thymidine phosphorylase. This reaction requires inorganic phosphate (Pi) as a substrate.

4. **Thymidine Deaminase Activity:** Thymidine (dThd) is deaminated to deoxyuridine (dUrd) by the enzyme thymidine deaminase. This reaction removes the amino group from the thymine base.

5. **Deoxyuridine Phosphorylase Activity:** Deoxyuridine (dUrd) is then broken down to uracil and deoxyribose-1-phosphate (dRib-1-P) by the enzyme deoxyuridine phosphorylase. This reaction requires inorganic phosphate (Pi) as a substrate.

6. **Uracil Catabolism:** Uracil, the final product of dTMP catabolism, can be further metabolized through a variety of pathways. In some organisms, uracil is degraded to β-alanine and CO2, while in others, it is converted to dihydrouracil and ultimately to β-alanine.

The dTMP catabolic process is tightly regulated and integrated with other metabolic pathways. It is important for maintaining the correct balance of nucleotide pools, removing damaged or unwanted dTMP, and providing essential precursors for other biosynthetic pathways. Defects in enzymes involved in dTMP catabolism can lead to various metabolic disorders. For example, mutations in the thymidine phosphorylase gene can cause thymidine phosphorylase deficiency, which can result in neurological problems and immune dysfunction.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (25)