oxygen sensor activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to and responding, e.g. by conformational change, to changes in the cellular level of oxygen (O2). [GOC:mah]

Oxygen sensor activity is a molecular function that refers to the ability of a protein or other molecule to detect and respond to changes in oxygen levels. This function is crucial for many biological processes, including cellular respiration, angiogenesis, and wound healing.

Oxygen sensors typically bind to oxygen molecules, causing a conformational change in the sensor that triggers a downstream signaling pathway. These sensors can be located in the cytoplasm, mitochondria, or cell membrane.

**Here are some examples of oxygen sensor proteins:**

* **HIF-1α (Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1 Alpha):** This protein is a transcription factor that is activated in response to low oxygen levels. HIF-1α promotes the expression of genes involved in angiogenesis, glycolysis, and other hypoxia-related responses.
* **Prolyl hydroxylase domain (PHD) enzymes:** These enzymes are involved in the regulation of HIF-1α stability. They hydroxylate specific proline residues on HIF-1α, which targets it for degradation in the presence of oxygen.
* **Hemoglobin:** This protein in red blood cells binds to oxygen and transports it throughout the body. It can also act as an oxygen sensor, releasing oxygen more readily in tissues with low oxygen levels.
* **Nitric oxide synthase (NOS):** This enzyme produces nitric oxide (NO), which is a signaling molecule that can regulate blood vessel dilation. NO production is influenced by oxygen levels, making NOS a potential oxygen sensor.

**The molecular function of oxygen sensor activity can be summarized as follows:**

* **Oxygen binding:** The sensor protein binds to oxygen, triggering a conformational change.
* **Signal transduction:** The conformational change activates a downstream signaling pathway.
* **Cellular response:** The signaling pathway leads to changes in gene expression, protein activity, or other cellular processes.

Oxygen sensor activity is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and responding to changes in the environment. These sensors play crucial roles in various physiological processes and are implicated in various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative diseases.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (28)