|
|
Ribbon model of Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) (18) |
| Isocitrate dehydrogenase is an enzyme that plays a major role in the Kreb’s cycle of the citric acid cycle. The production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from the citric acid cycle is driven by a protein gradient created by the transfer of electrons from the electron transport chain to oxygen. Many of these electrons are generated by the conversion of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) to reduced NAD+ (NADH) by isocitrate dehydrogenase. The variance among species has created a challenge in the study of isocitrate dehydrogenase. However, conserved amino acid residue patterns have helped in translating the role of isocitrate dehydrogenase across species. Isocitrate dehydrogenase is regulated by surrounding substrate concentrations and by the products formed. The most common regulation path is phosphorylation of a serine residue that plays a crucial role in the mechanism. This enzyme has been shown to play a critical role in protecting tissue against oxidative damage from induced stress. The variance in tissue susceptibility and concentrations of isocitrate dehydrogenase has led scientists to believe that the enzyme serves an important role protecting tissues in anaerobic metabolism. |
         |