Question: Thymidylate synthetase synthesizes dTMP from dUMP. However, dUMP must first be made from dUTP by the action of dUTP diphosphohydrolase. What is the significance of this enzyme? Why would we synthesize dUTP to begin with?
Question: Recognize that thymidylate synthetase also requires an activated form of THFA, so we once again encounter this reduced one carbon functioning in a critical reaction in the cell. The interesting thing about this reaction is that the THFA becomes oxidized during this reaction and must be reduced in order to continue to serve as a one carbon donor. How is this accomplished?