Thymidylate Synthase

Thymidylate synthase (TS) is a crucial enzyme involved in the synthesis of thymidine monophosphate (dTMP), an essential building block of DNA. By catalyzing the conversion of deoxyuridine monophosphate (dUMP) to dTMP, TS ensures the proper supply of thymidine for DNA replication and repair. Given its fundamental role in DNA synthesis, TS is a key target in chemotherapy, particularly in treating cancers. Inhibitors of TS, such as 5-fluorouracil and pemetrexed, disrupt DNA production, leading to the death of rapidly dividing cancer cells. Thus, targeting TS can effectively hinder tumor growth and is vital in the arsenal of anticancer therapies, emphasizing its importance in medical research and treatment development.