Official Full Name
Maltooligosyl trehalose trehalohydrolase
Background
4-alpha-D-{(1->4)-alpha-D-glucano}trehalose trehalohydrolase (EC 3.2.1.141, malto-oligosyltrehalose trehalohydrolase) is an enzyme with system name 4-alpha-D-((1->4)-alpha-D-glucano)trehalose glucanohydrolase (trehalose-producing).This enzyme catalyses the following chemical reaction: hydrolysis of (1->4)-alpha-D-glucosidic linkage in 4-alpha-D-[(1->4)-alpha-D-glucanosyl]n trehalose to yield trehalose and (1->4)-alpha-D-glucan.
Synonyms
4-α-D-{(1→4)-α-D-Glucano}trehalose trehalohydrolase; 4-α-D-(1#4-α-D-glucano)trehalose glucanohydrolase (trehalose-producing); 4-alpha-D-{(1→4)-alpha-D-glucano}trehalose trehalohydrolase; 4-alpha-D-(1#4-alpha-D-glucano)trehalose glucanohydrolase (trehalose-producing); Malto-oligosyltrehalose trehalohydrolase
Maltooligosyl trehalose trehalohydrolase is an enzyme belonging to the glycoside hydrolase family. It is involved in the breakdown of trehalose, a disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules connected by an α,α-1,1-glycosidic bond. MTTH catalyzes the hydrolysis of trehalose, yielding two glucose molecules, facilitating its utilization as an energy source. Maltooligosyl trehalose trehalohydrolase is a key enzyme in carbohydrate metabolism, playing a vital role in the breakdown of trehalose and subsequent glucose utilization.
Structure
MTTH possesses a unique tertiary structure that enables its specific interaction with trehalose molecules. It consists of an active site and a catalytic site, which facilitate the hydrolysis reaction. Several studies have explored the three-dimensional structure of MTTH, providing insights into its catalytic mechanism and substrate recognition.
Functions
The primary function of MTTH is the digestion of trehalose. Many organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and insects, utilize trehalose as a storage carbohydrate. MTTH catalyzes its hydrolysis, releasing glucose for energy production and other metabolic processes.
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Role in Carbohydrate Metabolism
MTTH plays a crucial role in the overall carbohydrate metabolism of an organism. It participates in the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, such as starch and glycogen, by converting trehalose into glucose. This process contributes to the maintenance of glucose homeostasis and allows for efficient energy production.
Maltooligosyl trehalose catalyzes the release of trehalose by cleaving the α-1.4-glucosidic linkage next to the α-1.1-linked terminal disaccharide of maltooligosyl trehalose. Trehalose was synthesized from starch by the cooperative action of these two enzymes.
Applications
The enzyme MTTH has significant applications in the food industry. Its ability to break down trehalose into glucose makes it useful in the production of low-carbohydrate and low-calorie food products. MTTH can be employed to customize the sweetness and texture of food items, improving their overall quality.
MTTH has attracted considerable interest in the field of bioenergy production. Trehalose is a potential source of glucose for biofuel synthesis. By utilizing MTTH, researchers can efficiently generate glucose from trehalose, which can be further processed and converted into biofuels, such as ethanol.
Clinical Significances
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Glycogen Storage Diseases
MTTH holds clinical significance in the context of glycogen storage diseases (GSDs). These disorders are characterized by impaired glycogen metabolism, leading to the accumulation of glycogen in various organs. MTTH can potentially be targeted for therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing glycogen breakdown and alleviating symptoms associated with GSDs.
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Diabetes and Glucose Regulation
Given its involvement in carbohydrate metabolism, MTTH has implications for diabetes research and glucose regulation. Understanding the regulation and activity of MTTH may provide insights into the pathogenesis of diabetes and potentially lead to novel therapeutic strategies.
Conclusion
The clinical significances of MTTH in glycogen storage diseases and diabetes research offer promising avenues for further exploration and potential therapeutic interventions. Continued research into the mechanism and regulation of MTTH will provide a deeper understanding of carbohydrate metabolism and may lead to innovations in various fields, benefiting human health and industry alike.
