Schistosoma mansoni sulfotransferase (SmSULT-OR)

Schistosoma mansoni sulfotransferase (SmSULT-OR) is a parasite enzyme essential for activating the anti-schistosomal prodrug oxamniquine. SmSULT-OR catalyzes the transfer of a sulfuryl group from 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphosulfate (PAPS) to oxamniquine, generating a reactive intermediate that binds parasitic macromolecules and results in worm death. This mechanism is highly species- and enzyme-specific, and the enzyme has become central to efforts to design new schistosomicidal compounds. Mutations in the SmSULT-OR gene confer oxamniquine resistance and increasingly pose a clinical challenge in endemic regions. The enzyme's distinct structural features have been described in crystallographic studies, underpinning rational drug development for broadened or improved therapeutic efficacy. SmSULT-OR represents a validated molecular target for combating S. mansoni infection, although its role is limited to the activation of specific drugs and is subject to resistance evolution.

Other names

SmSULTSmSULT-ORSmp_089320 (gene identifier)S. mansoni oxamniquine-activating sulfotransferaseSchistosome sulfotransferase

Sulfation of oxamniquine (prodrug) to generate a reactive intermediate that binds and damages schistosome DNA and macromolecules, killing the parasite For derivatives, similar chemical activation by sulfation results in schistosomicidal activity