Structural and Dynamic Insights into Substrate Binding and Catalysis of Human Lipocalin Prostaglandin D Synthase

The document from 2013 explores the binding and catalysis mechanisms of human lipocalin prostaglandin D synthase (L-PGDS), an enzyme involved in the synthesis of prostaglandin D₂ (PGD₂). The researchers used X-ray crystallography and NMR spectroscopy to solve the structure of L-PGDS with a substrate analog and to map the binding sites, revealing two different conformations of the catalytic Cys 65 thiol group and suggesting a model for ligand binding. They identified key residues involved in substrate recognition, catalysis, and product release, and showed that ligands increased the thermal stability of L-PGDS and could inhibit its catalytic activity. The study also indicated that L-PGDS interacts with membranes, which could regulate the release of PGD₂ into the lipid bilayer of the endoplasmic reticulum. This research contributes to the understanding of L-PGDS's role in biological processes and its potential link to hair loss and alopecia.