protein methylesterase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the reaction: protein amino acid methyl ester + H2O = protein amino acid + methanol. [GOC:ai]

Protein methylesterase activity is a crucial molecular function that involves the removal of methyl groups from various substrates, primarily proteins. These enzymes play a pivotal role in regulating a wide range of cellular processes, including:

- **Signal transduction:** Methylation and demethylation events are essential for the proper functioning of signaling pathways, modulating the activity of proteins involved in cell communication, growth, and differentiation.

- **Gene regulation:** Methylesterases can modify histone proteins, which are involved in packaging and regulating DNA. Demethylation of histones can lead to changes in gene expression, affecting processes like transcription and translation.

- **Protein stability:** Methylation can influence the stability of proteins, and methylesterases contribute to the degradation and turnover of proteins, ensuring proper cellular function.

- **Cellular processes:** Methylesterases are involved in various cellular processes, such as cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and immune responses.

- **Metabolic pathways:** Methylesterases can influence the activity of enzymes involved in metabolic pathways, affecting the production and utilization of essential molecules.

The mechanism of methylesterase activity involves the hydrolysis of a methyl ester bond, releasing a methyl group and a corresponding carboxylic acid. This process requires the presence of water and is typically catalyzed by a specific active site within the enzyme.

The diversity of methylesterase substrates and their regulatory roles highlight the importance of these enzymes in maintaining cellular homeostasis and proper biological function.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)