Glucosylceramidase Activity Assay Kit (Fluorometric)

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

GBA also known as glucosylceramidase is a lysosomal enzyme with a molecular mass of approximately 59 kDa. This enzyme breaks down glucosylceramide into glucose and ceramide. GBA is expressed predominantly in tissues with high metabolic activities such as the brain liver and spleen. Its function relies on its catalytic activity where substrates bind to its active site enabling the hydrolysis process necessary for maintaining cellular metabolism.

Biological function summary

GBA plays an important role in sphingolipid metabolism. It participates in the degradation of glycolipids within the lysosome contributing to lipid recycling. It acts independently rather than as a part of a major enzymatic complex. Through its role in degrading glucosylceramide GBA influences cellular homeostasis and bioenergetics ensuring balance in neural and systemic lipid levels.

Pathways

GBA’s enzymatic functions are integral to the glycosphingolipid metabolic pathway. It is involved in the downstream steps of the lysosomal degradation of glycosphingolipids. The pathway operates alongside other important proteins such as beta-glucosidase and CERT-related transfer proteins all of which contribute to membrane lipid organization and signal transduction processes.

Associated diseases and disorders

GBA mutations are linked with Gaucher disease and Parkinson’s disease. In Gaucher disease deficient GBA activity leads to substrate accumulation resulting in hepatosplenomegaly and other systemic symptoms. Reduced GBA activity is also associated with increased alpha-synuclein aggregation in Parkinson’s disease implicating it in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. The enzyme’s function in these diseases highlights its role in maintaining cellular equilibrium and signaling pathways.