What is the Origin of Mevalonate Pathway?

This core biochemical pathway is named after mevalonate, the key intermediate molecule formed early in the synthetic cascade. Its elucidation was a major milestone in lipid biochemistry, establishing the foundational steps for cholesterol and steroid synthesis in eukaryotes.

What is the Mechanism of Mevalonate Pathway?

The pathway is initiated by the condensation of acetyl-CoA units, with the rate-limiting step being the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, catalyzed by the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. This reductase is the primary control point and the target of statins, which competitively inhibit its activity. Subsequent enzymatic reactions convert mevalonate into the diverse isoprenoid molecules, ensuring the cell has the necessary building blocks for proliferation, signaling, and hormone production.

Mevalonate Pathway

Meaning

The Mevalonate Pathway, also known as the isoprenoid pathway, is an essential and ubiquitous metabolic route responsible for the biosynthesis of isopentenyl pyrophosphate and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate, which are precursors to a vast array of vital molecules. These end products include cholesterol, steroid hormones, coenzyme Q10, and prenylated proteins, all crucial for cell membrane integrity, endocrine signaling, and respiratory chain function. Pharmacologically, this pathway is a major target for cholesterol-lowering statin drugs.