Neuroplasticity: How Daily Habits Rewire Your Brain
Scientifically Reviewed · Dr. Marwa Abd-Alazim · September 28, 2026
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Transferases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of functional groups from one molecule to another. They are key components of metabolic pathways, playing a role in the synthesis and degradation of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Additionally, transferases are involved in the synthesis of coenzymes, hormones, and other biochemicals. In this article, we will review the structure and function of transferases, discuss their role in metabolic pathways, and explore the potential of transferases as therapeutic targets in disease.
Transferases are classified into two groups: those that transfer a functional group from a donor to an acceptor molecule, and those that transfer a group from one molecule to another within the same molecule. The former group of transferases is further divided into two types: Class I and Class II. Class I transferases transfer a functional group from a donor to an acceptor molecule, while Class II transferases transfer a group from one molecule to another within the same molecule.
The structure of transferases is highly conserved, consisting of two domains. The N-terminal domain is composed of an α/β-fold and is responsible for binding the donor molecule. The C-terminal domain is composed of an α/β-barrel and is responsible for binding the acceptor molecule. This structural arrangement allows transferases to form a covalent bond between the donor and acceptor molecules, catalyzing the transfer of the functional group.
Transferases are involved in numerous metabolic pathways, playing a role in the synthesis and degradation of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. For example, transferases are involved in the synthesis of coenzymes, hormones, and other biochemicals. They are also involved in the degradation of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, as well as the synthesis of fatty acids and glycerol. Additionally, transferases are involved in the synthesis and breakdown of nucleic acids.
The potential of transferases as therapeutic targets in disease has been explored. For example, transferases have been targeted as potential treatments for cancer, diabetes, obesity, and neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, transferases have been studied as potential targets for the development of novel antibiotics and antiviral agents.
In conclusion, transferases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of functional groups from one molecule to another. They play a key role in numerous metabolic pathways, and their potential as therapeutic targets in disease has been explored.
References
Chauhan, A., & Katiyar, S. K. (2019). Transferases: Structure, Function and Role in Metabolic Pathways. In A. B. K. Sinha (Ed.), Enzymes: Structure, Function and Role in Biological Processes (pp. 77–98). Academic Press.
Verma, A., & Khanna, N. (2017). Transferases as Potential Targets for Drug Development: An Overview. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 23(30), 4602–4610. https://doi.org/10.2174/1381612823666170427141509
