Year: 1994
Type: book-chapter
Abstract: This chapter addresses recent findings concerning the identity of the cysteine S-conjugate β-lyases in mammals, the reactions catalyzed by these enzymes, and the pharmacological aspects of the cysteine S-conjugate β-lyases are addressed. It also discusses β-elimination reactions with cysteine S-conjugates in detail. Relatively little attention has been given to the role of cysteine S-conjugates in human health. Prolonged exposure to low levels of pollutants that can be activated through a glutathione conjugate may predispose certain individuals to risk of kidney disease and others perhaps to inexorable loss of brain function. From this epidemiological point of view, the cysteine S-conjugate β-lyases deserve more attention. However, these enzymes are also interesting in their own right. Cysteine S-conjugate β-lyases thus far shown to occur in mammals belong to three classes: (1) those present in enteric bacteria, (2) a liver form (kynureninase), and (3) a kidney form (glutamine transaminase K). In addition, because of its unique substrate specificity, the enzyme may be the target of prodrugs designed to deliver anticancer drugs to the kidney. Indeed, some progress has already been made in this area.
Source: Advances in pharmacology
Author: Arthur J.L. Cooper
Institution: Cornell University
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmacology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Award: PATHOGENESIS OF HEPATIC COMA
OpenAlex ID: W960798953