Biopterin
Biopterin
Biopterin (pronounced: /baɪˈɒptərɪn/) is a type of cofactor that is involved in the synthesis of several important biochemical substances in the human body.
Etymology
The term "biopterin" is derived from the Greek words "bios" meaning "life" and "pterin" meaning "wing", referring to its role in facilitating vital biochemical reactions.
Function
Biopterin serves as a cofactor for several enzymes, including phenylalanine hydroxylase, tyrosine hydroxylase, and tryptophan hydroxylase. These enzymes are involved in the synthesis of amino acids and neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin.
Clinical Significance
Deficiency in biopterin can lead to several medical conditions, including Phenylketonuria and Sepiapterin reductase deficiency. These conditions can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, including intellectual disability, seizures, and movement disorders.
Related Terms
- Cofactor (biochemistry): A non-protein chemical compound that is required for an enzyme's activity.
- Enzyme: A protein that acts as a biological catalyst.
- Phenylketonuria: A genetic disorder that results in the body's inability to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine.
- Sepiapterin reductase deficiency: A disorder of the nervous system characterized by a variety of neurological symptoms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Biopterin
- Wikipedia's article - Biopterin
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