Question

The process of transfer of amino group from one amino acid to the keto group of a keto acid is called as (a) oxidative amination (b) reductive amination (c) transamination (d) deamination

Short answer

(c) transamination

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Concept

Review the definitions of each term listed in the options. Oxidative amination and reductive amination involve the addition of an amino group to a substrate, typically utilizing oxidizing or reducing agents respectively. Transamination refers to the transfer of an amino group from one molecule (usually an amino acid) to another (typically a keto acid). Deamination is the removal of an amino group from a molecule.

Comparing with the Definition

Compare the process described in the problem with the definitions reviewed in Step 1. The transfer of an amino group from one amino acid to the keto group of a keto acid matches the definition of transamination.

Selecting the Correct Answer

Based on the comparison done in Step 2, it is clear that the process is called transamination. Therefore, the correct answer is (c) transamination.

Key concepts

Amino Acid Metabolism

Understanding amino acid metabolism is key to grasping how the body processes proteins. Proteins are broken down into amino acids, which are vital for various functions such as muscle repair, neurotransmitter production, and immune response.

Amino acids undergo various metabolic pathways where they are synthesized, converted, and degraded within the body. One such pathway is transamination, where an amino group from an amino acid is transferred to a keto acid. This transfer is essential for the synthesis of non-essential amino acids, which the body needs to perform optimally. Enzymes called transaminases or aminotransferases catalyze these reactions, with vitamin B6 (pyridoxal phosphate) as a common cofactor.

The regulation of this metabolism ensures a balanced supply of amino acids for the synthesis of proteins and other nitrogen-containing compounds, which is why it's a focal point of study in nutritional science and medical biochemistry.

Biochemical Pathways

Biochemical pathways are series of chemical reactions occurring within a cell, which are crucial for maintaining the cell's homeostasis and executing life processes. These pathways can be anabolic (building up) or catabolic (breaking down), depending on their function.

Transamination occurs within one such pathway called amino acid catabolism. Through transamination, the body repurposes amino groups, making it a prime example of how metabolic pathways recycle and use different molecules to keep the body's chemistry in balance.

Understanding these pathways is not only about memorizing the steps but also recognizing how they fit into larger biological contexts. This interrelated nature of metabolic pathways illustrates how alterations in one pathway can affect another, further highlighting the intricate web of biochemical processes within the body.

Molecular Biology

Molecular biology is the study of biological processes at the molecular level, particularly those involving nucleic acids and proteins. It's through the lens of molecular biology that we fully appreciate the significance of processes such as transamination.

Transamination impacts genetic expression by affecting the availability of amino acids necessary for protein synthesis. The aminotransferase enzymes, for instance, are encoded by genes, which can be upregulated or downregulated in response to cellular needs.

Transaminases and Genetic Regulation

The activity of transaminases, and thus the efficiency of transamination, are controlled by genetic factors.
When studying molecular biology, we not only focus on individual enzymes and reactions but also on how cells regulate these activities to ensure proper function. The study of these regulatory mechanisms can inform medical treatments and nutritional recommendations for maintaining optimal health.