DIHYDROFOLATE REDUCTASE Meaning and
Definition
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Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and amino acids. It belongs to the enzyme class of oxidoreductases, specifically to the family of reductases. DHFR catalyzes the conversion of dihydrofolate (DHF) to tetrahydrofolate (THF) by utilizing NADPH as a cofactor.
THF is an essential cofactor in many metabolic reactions, including the transfer of one-carbon units. It serves as a carrier of activated one-carbon units (methyl, formyl, and methylene groups) necessary for the production of nucleotides, certain amino acids (such as serine, glycine, and methionine), and other important molecules in the body.
The reaction catalyzed by DHFR is vital for cell growth and division, making the enzyme an attractive target for pharmacological interventions. In fact, DHFR inhibitors, such as trimethoprim and methotrexate, have been developed and widely used as antibiotics and anticancer drugs, respectively.
Mutations in the dihydrofolate reductase gene can result in an altered enzyme structure or function, leading to decreased activity or resistance against inhibitors. These mutations can have various consequences, including resistance to certain drugs or altered folate metabolism, which may impact cell proliferation and human health.
In summary, dihydrofolate reductase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of folate, a vital cofactor involved in DNA and amino acid synthesis.
Common Misspellings for DIHYDROFOLATE REDUCTASE
- sihydrofolate reductase
- xihydrofolate reductase
- cihydrofolate reductase
- fihydrofolate reductase
- rihydrofolate reductase
- eihydrofolate reductase
- duhydrofolate reductase
- djhydrofolate reductase
- dkhydrofolate reductase
- dohydrofolate reductase
- d9hydrofolate reductase
- d8hydrofolate reductase
- digydrofolate reductase
- dibydrofolate reductase
- dinydrofolate reductase
- dijydrofolate reductase
- diuydrofolate reductase
- diyydrofolate reductase
- dihtdrofolate reductase
- dihgdrofolate reductase
Etymology of DIHYDROFOLATE REDUCTASE
The word "Dihydrofolate Reductase" has a scientific and technical etymology.
1. Dihydrofolate: The term "dihydrofolate" is derived from the combination of "dihydro-" and "folate".
- "Dihydro-" is a prefix indicating the presence of two hydrogen atoms in a compound's structure.
- "Folate" refers to a group of essential B-vitamins that includes folic acid. Folate is involved in various biochemical processes, including the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and amino acids.
2. Reductase: The term "reductase" is derived from the word "reduce" and the suffix "-ase", which indicates an enzyme.
- "Reduce" refers to the process of adding electrons or hydrogen atoms to a molecule, resulting in a decrease in oxidation state.
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