NUDT18 Activators

NUDT18, also known as CoA pyrophosphatase, is a protein encoded by the NUDT18 gene in humans. This enzyme belongs to the Nudix (nucleoside diphosphate linked to some other moiety X) hydrolase family, which is known for its role in the hydrolysis of various nucleoside diphosphate derivatives.

NUDT18 specifically functions to hydrolyze Coenzyme A (CoA) and dephospho-CoA (dpCoA) to 3',5'-ADP and 4'-phosphopantetheine, respectively. CoA and its derivatives are central to numerous metabolic processes, including the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, as well as the metabolism of many other acids and alcohols through acetylation and acylation reactions. By regulating the levels of CoA and dpCoA, NUDT18 plays a critical role in maintaining the balance of CoA-related metabolic pathways.

The activity of NUDT18 is important for cellular health because CoA is essential for energy production and lipid metabolism. CoA must be tightly regulated within cells, as imbalances can lead to metabolic dysfunctions. For example, excess CoA can inhibit mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation, leading to the accumulation of fatty acids within the cell.Alterations in the function or expression of NUDT18 can have significant physiological implications. While research on NUDT18 is not as extensive as for some other proteins, understanding its role in CoA metabolism is crucial. It may have implications for conditions characterized by metabolic disturbances, such as diabetes, obesity, and certain types of liver diseases.