Trichosanthin: Difference between revisions
CSV import |
CSV import Tags: mobile edit mobile web edit |
||
| (One intermediate revision by the same user not shown) | |||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
Trichosanthin is a type | == Trichosanthin == | ||
[[File:PDB_1qd2_EBI.png|thumb|right|Structure of Trichosanthin]] | |||
'''Trichosanthin''' is a type of [[ribosome-inactivating protein]] (RIP) derived from the root tuber of the plant ''[[Trichosanthes kirilowii]]'', which is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is known for its ability to inhibit protein synthesis by depurinating [[adenine]] from the [[ribosomal RNA]] of the [[ribosome]]. | |||
== Structure == | == Structure == | ||
Trichosanthin is a single-chain | |||
Trichosanthin is a single-chain [[polypeptide]] consisting of approximately 247 [[amino acids]]. The three-dimensional structure of trichosanthin, as determined by [[X-ray crystallography]], reveals a characteristic [[RIP fold]] that is crucial for its enzymatic activity. The structure includes a prominent active site cleft that accommodates the substrate [[RNA]]. | |||
== Mechanism of Action == | == Mechanism of Action == | ||
== | Trichosanthin exerts its biological effects by specifically targeting the [[28S ribosomal RNA]] within the [[60S ribosomal subunit]]. It catalyzes the removal of a specific adenine base, leading to the inactivation of the ribosome and cessation of [[protein synthesis]]. This action is similar to other type I ribosome-inactivating proteins. | ||
Trichosanthin has shown | |||
== Biological Effects == | |||
Trichosanthin has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of [[HIV/AIDS]]. It has been shown to inhibit the replication of the [[HIV]] virus in vitro by interfering with the viral [[RNA]] synthesis. Additionally, trichosanthin has been investigated for its [[antitumor]] properties, as it can induce [[apoptosis]] in certain cancer cell lines. | |||
== Medical Applications == | |||
In traditional Chinese medicine, trichosanthin is used for its [[abortifacient]] properties. It has been employed to induce [[abortion]] in early pregnancy. However, its use in modern medicine is limited due to potential [[toxicity]] and side effects. | |||
== Safety and Toxicity == | |||
While trichosanthin has potential therapeutic benefits, it is also associated with significant toxicity. Adverse effects can include [[allergic reactions]], [[fever]], and [[gastrointestinal]] disturbances. Careful consideration and monitoring are required when using trichosanthin in clinical settings. | |||
== | == Related Pages == | ||
* [[Ribosome-inactivating protein]] | |||
* [[Trichosanthes kirilowii]] | |||
* [[Protein synthesis]] | |||
* [[HIV/AIDS]] | |||
[[Category:Proteins]] | [[Category:Proteins]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Traditional Chinese medicine]] | ||
[[Category:Antiviral drugs]] | [[Category:Antiviral drugs]] | ||
Latest revision as of 10:48, 15 February 2025
Trichosanthin[edit]
Trichosanthin is a type of ribosome-inactivating protein (RIP) derived from the root tuber of the plant Trichosanthes kirilowii, which is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is known for its ability to inhibit protein synthesis by depurinating adenine from the ribosomal RNA of the ribosome.
Structure[edit]
Trichosanthin is a single-chain polypeptide consisting of approximately 247 amino acids. The three-dimensional structure of trichosanthin, as determined by X-ray crystallography, reveals a characteristic RIP fold that is crucial for its enzymatic activity. The structure includes a prominent active site cleft that accommodates the substrate RNA.
Mechanism of Action[edit]
Trichosanthin exerts its biological effects by specifically targeting the 28S ribosomal RNA within the 60S ribosomal subunit. It catalyzes the removal of a specific adenine base, leading to the inactivation of the ribosome and cessation of protein synthesis. This action is similar to other type I ribosome-inactivating proteins.
Biological Effects[edit]
Trichosanthin has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It has been shown to inhibit the replication of the HIV virus in vitro by interfering with the viral RNA synthesis. Additionally, trichosanthin has been investigated for its antitumor properties, as it can induce apoptosis in certain cancer cell lines.
Medical Applications[edit]
In traditional Chinese medicine, trichosanthin is used for its abortifacient properties. It has been employed to induce abortion in early pregnancy. However, its use in modern medicine is limited due to potential toxicity and side effects.
Safety and Toxicity[edit]
While trichosanthin has potential therapeutic benefits, it is also associated with significant toxicity. Adverse effects can include allergic reactions, fever, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Careful consideration and monitoring are required when using trichosanthin in clinical settings.
