Polyamines biosynthesis and oxidation in free-living amoebae

Abstract

In this paper we describe the polyamine biosynthesis and oxidation processes, giving an overview about recent results in free-living Amoebae. The protozoa polyamine levels are different in comparison with mammalian cells. Also, the polyamine levels in protozoa cells change if these species are pathological or not for the human beings. All the amoeba strains show high concentrations of 1,3-diaminopropane (DAP), spermidine and acetylspermidine while spermine is absent. In these amoeba a considerable polyamine oxidase activity has been found, which acts on N8-acetylspermidine, but not on free polyamines. This enzyme is responsible, together with polyamine acetylase, of DAP synthesis whose function is not well known.

Role of Polyamines in Parasite Cell Architecture and Function

“…[153,154,223]. Besides parasites (vide infra) polyamines may play important roles in free-living amoebae [224].…”

Introduction: Amine oxidases and polyamines in biological systems

“…The issue is further discussed by Ruggeri et al (2004), describing the polyamine biosynthesis and oxidation processes in free-living amoebae. In all the amoeba strains a polyamine oxidase activity has been detected, which acts on N 8 -acetylspermidine.…”