O-palmitoyltransferase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the transfer of a palmitoyl group to an oxygen atom on the acceptor molecule. [GOC:ai]

O-palmitoyltransferase activity refers to the enzymatic transfer of a palmitate group, a 16-carbon saturated fatty acid, from palmitoyl-CoA to a specific target molecule. This process is known as palmitoylation, a type of protein modification that typically occurs at cysteine residues within the target protein. Palmitoylation often plays a critical role in regulating protein function, localization, and interaction with other molecules.

Palmitoyltransferases (PATs) are the enzymes responsible for catalyzing this reaction. They exhibit a wide range of substrate specificity, acting on diverse protein targets within various cellular compartments. The precise function of palmitoylation depends on the specific protein and its cellular context.

Here are some key functions of O-palmitoyltransferase activity:

* **Protein Targeting and Membrane Association:** Palmitoylation can promote the association of proteins with cellular membranes, particularly the plasma membrane. This allows proteins to interact with membrane-bound signaling molecules and participate in membrane-associated processes.
* **Protein-Protein Interactions:** Palmitoylation can influence the interaction of proteins with other proteins. By modifying specific residues, palmitoylation can create or disrupt protein binding sites, thereby regulating protein complex formation and signaling pathways.
* **Protein Stability and Turnover:** Palmitoylation can influence protein stability and turnover. By modulating protein interactions and subcellular localization, palmitoylation can affect protein degradation pathways and the overall lifespan of the protein.
* **Signal Transduction:** Palmitoylation plays a crucial role in signal transduction pathways. By altering protein conformation or membrane association, palmitoylation can activate or inhibit downstream signaling events, influencing cellular responses to stimuli.

O-palmitoyltransferase activity is essential for diverse cellular functions, including signal transduction, membrane trafficking, and protein stability. Its dysregulation has been linked to various diseases, underscoring its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (2)