sulfation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The addition of a sulfate group to a molecule. [Wikipedia:Sulfation]

Sulfation is a critical biological process involving the covalent attachment of a sulfate group (SO4) to a variety of molecules, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and steroids. This process is catalyzed by a family of enzymes known as sulfotransferases, which transfer the sulfate group from a donor molecule, 3'-phosphoadenosine 5'-phosphosulfate (PAPS), to the acceptor molecule.

Sulfation plays a diverse range of roles in cellular function and biological processes. It can:

* **Alter protein structure and function:** Sulfation can modify protein conformation and charge distribution, impacting their activity, stability, and interactions with other molecules.
* **Regulate protein trafficking and localization:** Sulfation can direct proteins to specific cellular compartments, such as the cell surface or lysosomes.
* **Modulate signaling pathways:** Sulfation can influence the activity of signaling molecules, such as growth factors and hormones, by affecting their binding to receptors or their downstream signaling cascades.
* **Protect against oxidative stress:** Sulfation can contribute to the detoxification of reactive oxygen species and protect against oxidative damage.
* **Influence immune responses:** Sulfation plays a role in the regulation of immune cell activation and cytokine production.
* **Modify carbohydrate structure:** Sulfation can alter the structure and properties of carbohydrates, impacting their function in cell adhesion, recognition, and signaling.
* **Influence drug metabolism:** Sulfation can contribute to the metabolism and elimination of drugs from the body.

The specific effects of sulfation depend on the nature of the acceptor molecule and the site of sulfation. For example, sulfation of tyrosine residues in proteins can modulate their binding to protein kinases, while sulfation of carbohydrates can influence their binding to lectins.

Sulfation dysregulation has been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer, inflammation, and neurological disorders. Aberrant sulfation patterns can lead to altered protein function, signaling defects, and cellular dysfunction.

In summary, sulfation is a highly versatile and essential biological process that plays a critical role in a wide range of cellular functions and biological processes.'
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Proteins (6)

Compounds (10)