Transferases are enzymes that transfer functional chemical groups between molecules. They play a vital role in metabolism and deficiencies can cause health problems. Transferase inhibitors can be used to combat ailments, while drugs may be administered to compensate for deficiencies. Enzyme panels can test for transferase levels to monitor medical conditions.
A transferase is an enzyme designed to transfer a functional chemical group from one molecule to a different molecule. Over 450 transferases have been recognized, and researchers periodically discover new ones as they learn more about the biology and intricacies of the body. Deficiencies in some transferases can cause health problems, and transferases also play a vital role in a wide variety of activities, including research and study biology.
The enzyme that contributes a chemical group is known as a donor and the enzyme that accepts the group is known as a receptor. Within the large family of transferases, there are a number of subgroups, generally named for the types of chemical groups they deliver. Transaminases, for example, transfer amino groups, while DNA methyltransferases transfer methyl groups. Each known transferase is also given a specific identity based on the particular chemical group it handles and the types of molecules it interacts with.
Some drugs take advantage of the actions of transferases within the body. Transferase inhibitors impair the actions of transferases, preventing them from successfully transferring chemical groups. This can be used to combat a variety of ailments. In people who have a transferase deficiency, on the other hand, drugs must be administered to compensate for the lack of action of the transferases to avoid dangerous accumulations of chemical groups in the body.
Transferases play an important role in metabolism, helping the body break down and process complex molecules. If there are errors in this process, chemical groups can build up in the body, as the body lacks the ability to process these groups properly. For example, enzymes produced in the liver work to break down toxins processed by the liver; if the liver is overloaded with toxins, it may not be able to produce enzymes quickly enough and someone could become ill.
The levels of some transferase enzymes in the body can be tested, classically through the use of a blood test in which a screen for various enzymes of interest can be done. An enzyme panel, as it’s known, may be required to learn more about a patient’s underlying medical condition or to monitor an ongoing medical problem. The normal values on an enzyme panel vary depending on several factors, and the test results usually need to be interpreted by a doctor to determine whether or not the levels are of concern.
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