Argininosuccinate lyase
Argininosuccinate lyase
Argininosuccinate lyase (pronounced: ar-gi-ni-no-suc-ci-nate ly-ase), also known as ASL, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the urea cycle, which is the process by which mammals excrete ammonia. The enzyme catalyzes the breakdown of argininosuccinate into arginine and fumarate.
Etymology
The term "Argininosuccinate lyase" is derived from the name of the substrate it acts upon, argininosuccinate, and the type of reaction it catalyzes, a lyase reaction. The term "lyase" is derived from the Greek word "lysis," which means "loosening."
Function
Argininosuccinate lyase is involved in the fourth step of the urea cycle, where it catalyzes the cleavage of argininosuccinate into arginine and fumarate. This reaction is crucial for the body's disposal of excess nitrogen. The enzyme is found in the liver and kidneys, where the urea cycle primarily occurs.
Related Terms
- Urea cycle: The series of biochemical reactions in mammals that produces urea from ammonia. This cycle is of critical importance in the detoxification and excretion of nitrogenous waste.
- Arginine: An α-amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins. It is produced in the urea cycle when argininosuccinate is broken down by argininosuccinate lyase.
- Fumarate: An ion, salt, or ester of fumaric acid. It is produced in the urea cycle when argininosuccinate is broken down by argininosuccinate lyase.
See Also
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