transferase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the transfer of a group, e.g. a methyl group, glycosyl group, acyl group, phosphorus-containing, or other groups, from one compound (generally regarded as the donor) to another compound (generally regarded as the acceptor). Transferase is the systematic name for any enzyme of EC class 2. [ISBN:0198506732]

Transferase activity encompasses a broad range of enzymatic reactions that catalyze the transfer of functional groups, atoms, or molecular moieties from one molecule (the donor) to another (the acceptor). This fundamental process is ubiquitous in biological systems and plays crucial roles in a myriad of metabolic pathways, cellular processes, and signaling cascades.

Transferases can be classified based on the specific type of functional group they transfer, including:

* **Methyltransferases:** Catalyze the transfer of a methyl group (CH3). Examples include DNA methyltransferases, which regulate gene expression, and histone methyltransferases, which modify chromatin structure.

* **Kinases:** Catalyze the transfer of a phosphate group (PO4). They are central to signal transduction pathways, regulating protein activity and cellular responses. Examples include protein kinases, which phosphorylate proteins, and lipid kinases, which phosphorylate lipids.

* **Glycosyltransferases:** Catalyze the transfer of sugar moieties. They play essential roles in the synthesis of carbohydrates, glycoproteins, and glycolipids, contributing to cell recognition, signaling, and structural integrity.

* **Acyltransferases:** Catalyze the transfer of acyl groups (R-CO-). They participate in the synthesis of lipids, fatty acids, and other important biomolecules.

* **Aminotransferases:** Catalyze the transfer of amino groups (NH2). These enzymes are crucial in amino acid metabolism, converting amino acids into other metabolic intermediates.

Transferases utilize a variety of mechanisms to facilitate the transfer reaction, often involving the formation of transient intermediates. These enzymes exhibit high specificity for both the donor and acceptor molecules, ensuring precise and controlled transfer events.

In summary, transferase activity represents a diverse and essential class of enzymatic reactions that underpin a multitude of biological processes. Their ability to catalyze the transfer of functional groups is fundamental to maintaining cellular homeostasis, regulating cellular signaling, and driving metabolic pathways.'
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Proteins (18)

Compounds (338)