GDP-L-Fucose synthase, encoded by the gene TSTA3, is an NADP(H)-binding protein that catalyzes the final step in the synthesis of GDP-L-fucose from GDP-D-mannose.1,2 It converts GDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-D-mannose to GDP-L-fucose via a two-step reaction consisting of epimerization followed by NADPH-dependent reduction. GDP-L-Fucose synthase exists as a homodimer and is comprised of an N-terminal NADPH-binding domain and a C-terminal substrate-binding domain. TSTA3-/- mice exhibit increases in colonic inflammation, dysplasia, and epithelial permeability, which are reversed following addition of fucose to the diet.3 These mice also exhibit alterations in gut microflora and increased bacterial burden in colon transluminal tissue and feces when fed a normal diet versus a fucose-supplemented diet, and the colonic effects of TSTA3 deletion can be reversed following administration of antibiotics. GDP-L-Fucose synthase has been identified as an autoantigen that can be recognized by CD4+ T cells derived from patients with multiple sclerosis.4 Expression of GDP-L-fucose synthase in primary tumor tissue samples from patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) positively correlates with increased clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, and poor prognosis.5WARNING This product is not for human or veterinary use.
