Function
Sialyltransferase (SIT) is involved in maintaining or increasing cell surface sialysation which contributes to adhesive cellular interactions and thus to the growth and differentiation of hematopoietic progenitor cells[1]. Humans contain more than 20 different SIT differing in their substrate specificity, tissue distribution and various biochemical parameters[2].
Relevance
Elevated SIT activity leads to overexpression of cell surface sialic acids and contributes to many disease developments such as cancer and inflammation[3].
Structural highlights
The biological assembly of α-2,3-sialyltransferase is (2x61). The at the C-terminal of SIT[4]. . Water molecules are shown as red spheres.
3D structures of sialyltransferase
Sialyltransferase 3D structures