Branched chain amino acids catabolism as a source of new drug targets in pathogenic protists

• Published in: Experimental parasitology 2023-06, Vol.249, p.108499-108499, Article 108499
• Main Authors: Santos Souza, H.F., Marsiccobetre, S., Souza, R.O.O., Luévano-Martínez, L.A., Silber, A.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Amino Acids; Amino acids metabolism; Amino Acids, Branched-Chain - metabolism; Animals; Branched-chain amino acids; Drug targets; Eukaryota; Isoleucine - metabolism; Leucine; Mammals - metabolism; Pathogenic protists
• ISSN: 0014-4894; 1090-2449
• DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108499

Leucine, isoleucine, and valine, collectively termed Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA), are hydrophobic amino acids (AAs) and are essential for most eukaryotes since in these organisms they cannot be biosynthesized and must be supplied by the diet. These AAs are structurally relevant for muscle cells and, of course, important for the protein synthesis process. The metabolism of BCAA and its participation in different biological processes in mammals have been relatively well described. However, for other organisms as pathogenic parasites, the literature is really scarce. Here we review the BCAA catabolism, compile evidence on their relevance for pathogenic eukaryotes with special emphasis on kinetoplastids and highlight unique aspects of this underrated pathway. •The Branched Chain Amino Acids (Leucine, Valine and Isoleucine) is highly complex, highly regulated and poorly studied in pathogenic protists.•From what is currently known, the BCAA metabolism shows differences when compared to that of mammals.•The study of BCAA metabolism of unicellular parasites opens new perspectives for the discovery of new drug targets against unicellular parasites.