Enzyme could aid disease fight

An enzyme found in all living things could be key to fighting deadly parasite-borne diseases, a University study shows.


Researchers say this discovery creates an opportunity to design drugs that block activity of the enzyme - known as pyruvate kinase - in species that cause infection.


Widespread diseases


Professor Malcolm WalkinshawSchool of Biological Sciences

Findings from the study could lead to new treatments for diseases spread by parasites - including sleeping sickness and Chagas disease.

These affect millions of people in the developing world.


Enzyme function


They found that the enzyme becomes active in all species in a similar way, when a small sugar molecule binds to the enzyme to kick-start the process of nutrient absorption.




With this discovery, we’ve found an Achilles heel for sleeping sickness and many other conditions.

Professor Malcolm WalkinshawSchool of Biological Sciences