What is the product formed when glutamine amidotransferase acts on glutamine?

When glutamine amidotransferase acts on glutamine, the enzyme catalyzes the conversion of glutamine to glutamate. This reaction involves the removal of an amine group, which is transferred to another acceptor molecule, typically resulting in the production of ammonia and glutamate.

Glutamine is an amino acid characterized by its amine and carboxylic acid functional groups. The action of glutamine amidotransferase involves a hydrolytic deamination process — in simpler terms, it involves breaking down the amide link of glutamine to form glutamate. This conversion is integral in various metabolic pathways, including nitrogen metabolism, and helps in regulating amino acid levels in the body.

By breaking down glutamine and facilitating its conversion to glutamate, the enzyme plays a significant role in amino acid biosynthesis and catabolism, thereby influencing metabolic flux. Given the importance of glutamate in neurotransmission and as a precursor for other metabolites, this reaction is critical for both energy production and signaling pathways in cells. Thus, the primary product of the action of glutamine amidotransferase is indeed glutamate.