1,3-Beta-glucan synthase

1,3-Beta-glucan synthase is an enzyme that catalyzes the chemical reaction which converts UDP-glucose and a 1,3-beta-D-glucan into UDP and a 1,3-beta-D-glucan. This enzyme belongs to the family of glycosyltransferase, specifically the hexosyltransferase. The systematic name of this enzyme class is UDP-glucose:1,3-beta-D-glucan 3-beta-D-glucosyltransferase. Other names in common use include UDP-glucose:1,3-beta-glucan 3-beta-glucosyltransferase, and 1,3-beta-glucan synthetase.

Function

1,3-Beta-glucan synthase plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of cell wall in fungi. It is responsible for the synthesis of 1,3-beta-glucan, a major structural component of the fungal cell wall. The enzyme uses UDP-glucose as a substrate to synthesize 1,3-beta-glucan.

Structure

The structure of 1,3-Beta-glucan synthase is complex and not fully understood. It is known to be a large, multi-subunit enzyme. The active site of the enzyme is believed to be located on the inner surface of the plasma membrane, where it is able to access its substrate, UDP-glucose.

Clinical significance

1,3-Beta-glucan synthase is a target for antifungal drugs. Inhibition of this enzyme leads to a weakened cell wall and ultimately the death of the fungal cell. Drugs such as Echinocandins work by inhibiting 1,3-beta-glucan synthase.

Etymology

The term "1,3-Beta-glucan synthase" is derived from its function. "1,3-Beta-glucan" refers to the type of glucan it synthesizes, and "synthase" is a type of enzyme that catalyzes the joining of two molecules.

See also

• Glycosyltransferase
• Hexosyltransferase
• Echinocandin

References

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