MMA

Primate-Specific Regulation of the Human Glycosphingolipid Gatekeeper UGCG

August 27, 2026Pablo Navarro1 мин

Researchers have elucidated the cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of full-length human UGCG. This crucial enzyme acts as a gatekeeper, controlling the extent and variety of glycosphingolipids. The study reveals that UGCG employs a catalytic mechanism that does not require metal ions, but instead relies on an arginine network to drive its function.

English Translation:

Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the complete human UGCG enzyme have been determined. UGCG is identified as the key regulator that dictates the scale and composition of glycosphingolipid diversity. The findings indicate that this enzyme utilizes a metal-independent catalytic mechanism, powered by an arginine network.