aspartate transcarbamoylase

Aspartate transcarbamoylase (ATCase) is an enzyme that plays a key role in making pyrimidines, which are essential building blocks of DNA and RNA. It catalyzes the first step in the pathway, combining specific molecules to form a new compound. ATCase can change its shape depending on whether it's activated or inhibited, allowing it to regulate the production of DNA components based on the cell’s needs. This regulation ensures the cell efficiently balances nucleotide production, preventing shortages or excesses that could disrupt normal function.