Research Progress of the Arginine Biosynthetic Pathway in Prokaryotic Cells

doi:10.13560/j.cnki.biotech.bull.1985.2015.01.003

Abstract

Abstract: Arginine biosynthesis in prokaryotes consists of eight enzymatic steps, starting with acetylation of glutamate, catalysed by N-acetylglutamate synthase（NAGS）. After metabolisation of N-acetylglutamate, biosynthesis proceeds via three enzymatic steps which form further acetylated intermediates, until the acetyl group is removed in the fifth step of this process. The resulting ornithine is carbamoylated to citrulline. Addition of aspartate leads to N-argininosuccinate, which is finally converted to L-arginine. Here we summarize the arginine biosynthetic pathway, catalytic mechanisms of enzymes and the molecular mechanisms of feedback inhibition of ArgR protein. In addition, we briefly outline existing problems in the research of arginine metabolism and directions for future research.

Key words: arginine, NAGS, NAGK, OAT, ArgR

Yan Hongbo, Wang Wei, Li Lingdi, An Wanchang. Research Progress of the Arginine Biosynthetic Pathway in Prokaryotic Cells[J]. Biotechnology Bulletin, 2015, 31(1): 21-28.

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