Tautomerases
Tautomerases are enzymes that facilitate the interconversion of tautomers, which are isomers of a compound that differ in the placement of protons and the double bond. This process is crucial in various biological systems, as it can influence the structure and function of biomolecules, including nucleic acids and amino acids.
These enzymes play a significant role in maintaining the stability of genetic information by ensuring proper base pairing in DNA and RNA. Tautomerization can affect the fidelity of DNA replication and repair, highlighting the importance of tautomerases in cellular processes and overall organismal health.