NAD(P)H Cytochrome b5 Oxidoreductase Deficiency in Leishmania major Results in Impaired Linoleate Synthesis Followed by Increased Oxidative Stress and Cell Death

Abstract

NAD(P)H cytochrome b5 oxidoreductase (Ncb5or) participates in a variety of metabolic conversions. Results: A new Ncb5or acts as a redox partner of �12 fatty acid desaturase. Conclusion: Ncb5or null mutant suffers from impaired linoleate synthesis leading to oxidative stress and cell death. Significance: Our results have exposed a novel fatty acid synthesis pathway in L. major that differs from the mammalian system