How Do You Spell APOTRANSKETOLASE?

1. Apotransketolase is an enzyme that is part of the transketolase family. It is an inactive form of the enzyme transketolase that requires the presence of a coenzyme known as thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) in order to become activated and catalyze chemical reactions. Apotransketolase is derived from the Greek words "apo," meaning without, and "transketolase," referring to the family of enzymes it belongs to.

   Within living cells, apotransketolase plays a vital role in the process known as the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) or the phosphogluconate pathway. This biochemical pathway is responsible for the production of pentose sugars and reducing equivalents like NADPH, which are essential for several cellular processes, including the synthesis of nucleotides and fatty acids.

   When apotransketolase is combined with TPP, it undergoes a conformational change that enables it to bind to and react with specific substrates. This enzyme is involved in carbon-carbon bond rearrangements, facilitating the transfer of two-carbon keto groups between sugar molecules during the PPP. These reactions play a crucial role in the interconversion and synthesis of sugars in the cell.

   The activation of apotransketolase by TPP is of utmost importance for maintaining normal cellular function and providing the necessary intermediates for various metabolic processes. Deficiencies in TPP availability or defects in the apotransketolase enzyme itself can lead to metabolic disorders such as thiamine deficiency or transketolase deficiency, which can cause severe health complications.

Common Misspellings for APOTRANSKETOLASE

The word "Apotransketolase" has its etymology rooted in Greek and Latin.

The initial part "apo-" derives from the Greek word "apo" meaning "away" or "separate from". This prefix is commonly used in scientific terminology to indicate something that is devoid of or lacking in something else.

The second part "trans" is a Latin prefix meaning "across" or "beyond". It often implies movement or change.

"Ketolase" is a combination of two elements: "keto-" and "-lase". The prefix "keto-" refers to a chemical group called a ketone. "-lase" is a general suffix used to indicate an enzyme.