Isomerases

Isomerases — are enzymes that catalyze the conversion of molecules into their isomeric forms, changing the structure without altering the molecular formula.

They provide flexibility in biochemical processes, participate in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids, and support the energy balance of the organism.

Thanks to isomerases, cells can efficiently utilize available resources and adapt to changes in the external environment.

Main Characteristics and Functions

The main role of isomerases — is to rearrange molecules without changing their elemental composition. This allows substances to switch from one metabolic form to another, ensuring the plasticity of metabolism.

Key properties:

• specificity — act on specific substrates;
• high catalytic activity — accelerate reactions by tens of thousands of times;
• dependence on coenzymes — some isomerases require metal ions or coenzymes to function.

Classification and Mechanisms of Action

Isomerases can be divided by the type of isomerization:

• epimerases — change the configuration of atoms (for example, working with sugars);
• mutases — rearrange functional groups within a molecule (phosphoglucomutase);
• cis-trans isomerases — change the geometry of double bonds in lipids and amino acids.

The mechanism of action of isomerases involves the formation of temporary intermediate compounds or the use of coenzymes to stabilize transition states.

Role in Metabolism

Isomerases provide key stages in energy and plastic metabolism:

• glucose-6-phosphate isomerase — converts glucose-6-phosphate into fructose-6-phosphate in glycolysis;
• triose phosphate isomerase — facilitates the transition of dihydroxyacetone phosphate to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate;
• lipid isomerases — regulate the configuration of fatty acids.

Without these reactions, energy pathways would be disrupted, leading to metabolic blockage and the accumulation of toxic intermediate products.

Applications in Medicine

Isomerases are used as targets for therapy and as diagnostic markers:

• involvement in glycolysis and gluconeogenesis makes them promising for diabetes treatment;
• the activity of some isomerases is associated with tumor growth — their inhibitors are considered as anticancer drugs;
• determining enzyme levels (for example, lactate dehydrogenase) is used for diagnosing heart attacks and hepatitis.

Research Prospects

Modern gene engineering technologies allow for the modification of isomerases to enhance their activity and stability.

Promising directions:

• creating isomerases that work under extreme conditions (high temperature, acidity);
• using them in biocatalysis for the synthesis of complex molecules and pharmaceuticals;
• searching for new isomerases as therapeutic targets and disease biomarkers.

Isomerases are a key link in metabolism and a promising tool in medicine and biotechnology. Their study opens up new opportunities for creating innovative methods of treatment and diagnosis.