The diverse roles of flavin coenzymes--nature's most versatile thespians

J Org Chem. 2007 Aug 17;72(17):6329-42. doi: 10.1021/jo0703092. Epub 2007 Jun 20.

Abstract

Flavin coenzymes play a variety of roles in biological systems. This Perspective highlights the chemical versatility of flavins by reviewing research on five flavoenzymes that have been studied in our laboratory. Each of the enzymes discussed in this review [the acyl-CoA dehydrogenases (ACDs), CDP-6-deoxy-l-threo-d-glycero-4-hexulose-3-dehydrase reductase (E3), CDP-4-aceto-3,6-dideoxygalactose synthase (YerE), UDP-galactopyranose mutase (UGM), and type II isopentenyl diphosphate:dimethylallyl diphosphate isomerase (IDI-2)] utilizes flavin in a distinct role. In particular, the catalytic mechanisms of two of these enzymes, UGM and IDI-2, may involve novel flavin chemistry.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Coenzymes / chemistry*
  • Flavins / chemistry*
  • Models, Molecular
  • Oxidation-Reduction

Substances

  • Coenzymes
  • Flavins