Folic acid biosynthesis pathway enzyme (in bacteria)

The folic acid biosynthesis pathway in bacteria is a metabolic pathway essential for the synthesis of tetrahydrofolate (THF) and related folates, which serve as one-carbon donors in nucleotide and amino acid biosynthesis as well as other key cellular processes[2][4][6]. This pathway is present in bacteria but not in mammals, making it an attractive target for antibacterial drug development[2][4]. Multiple enzymes catalyze sequential steps, including GTP cyclohydrolase I, dihydropteroate synthase, and dihydrofolate reductase[2][4][5]. Inhibitors of this pathway include sulfonamides (which mimic PABA and inhibit dihydropteroate synthase) and trimethoprim (which inhibits dihydrofolate reductase)[3][5]. Resistance commonly arises through mutations in these enzymes or increased PABA production[3]. Disruption of folate synthesis impairs bacterial DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis, ultimately inhibiting bacterial growth and replication[5]. Note: There is something incorrect with the target as given. "Folic acid pathway in bacteria" refers to a multi-enzyme metabolic pathway, not a single canonical molecular target. When detailing therapeutic targets, it is more precise to refer to a specific enzyme within this pathway, such as "Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR)" or "Dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS)"[2][4]. As such, "Folic acid pathway in bacteria" should be flagged as too broad/vague for a canonical molecular target; individual pathway enzymes are the actual drug targets.

Other names

Folate pathwayBacterial folate synthesis pathway

Inhibition of dihydropteroate synthase (by sulfonamides, blocking PABA incorporation)[3]; Inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase (by trimethoprim, preventing tetrahydrofolate synthesis)[3]