The L-Rhamnose Biosynthetic Pathway in Trichomonas vaginalis: Identification and Characterization of UDP-D-Glucose 4,6-dehydratase.

ABSTRACT: Trichomonas vaginalis is the causative agent of one of the most widespread sexually transmitted diseases in the world. The adhesion of the parasite to the vaginal epithelial cells is mediated by specific proteins and by a complex glycan structure, the lipoglycan (TvLG), which covers the pathogen surface. L-rhamnose is an important component of TvLG, comprising up to 40% of the monosaccharides. Thus, the inhibition of its production could lead to a severe alteration in the TvLG structure, making the L-rhamnose biosynthetic pathway an attractive pharmacologic target. We report the identification and characterization of the first committed and limiting step of the L-rhamnose biosynthetic pathway, UDP-D-glucose 4,6-dehydratase (UGD, EC 4.2.1.76). The enzyme shows a strong preference for

SUBMITTER: Gaglianone M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9741107 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature