alpha-amino-acid esterase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the reaction: an alpha-amino acid ester + H2O = an alpha-amino acid + an alcohol. [EC:3.1.1.43, MetaCyc:ALPHA-AMINO-ACID-ESTERASE-RXN]

Alpha-amino-acid esterase activity refers to the catalytic hydrolysis of esters of alpha-amino acids. This enzymatic activity is crucial for various cellular processes, including:

* **Protein turnover:** Alpha-amino-acid esterases play a role in the breakdown of proteins into their constituent amino acids. This process is essential for the recycling of amino acids and the synthesis of new proteins.
* **Neurotransmitter metabolism:** Some alpha-amino-acid esterases are involved in the degradation of neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine. This activity is important for regulating synaptic transmission and neuronal signaling.
* **Signal transduction:** Certain alpha-amino-acid esterases participate in signal transduction pathways by hydrolyzing esterified signaling molecules, leading to changes in cellular function.
* **Metabolic pathways:** These enzymes may contribute to various metabolic pathways by hydrolyzing amino acid esters and generating free amino acids or other metabolites.

The active site of alpha-amino-acid esterases typically contains a catalytic triad of amino acids, including a serine residue that acts as a nucleophile, an acidic residue that activates the serine, and a histidine residue that acts as a general base. This catalytic triad facilitates the hydrolysis of the ester bond by attacking the carbonyl carbon of the ester and forming an unstable tetrahedral intermediate. Subsequent steps involve proton transfer and the release of the alcohol and carboxylate products.

Alpha-amino-acid esterases exhibit diverse substrate specificity, with some enzymes showing preference for specific amino acid residues or ester moieties. They are found in a wide range of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals, highlighting their importance in various biological functions.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (1)