Hydrolysis of organophosphorus compounds by microbial enzymes

Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2011 Jan;89(1):35-43. doi: 10.1007/s00253-010-2807-9. Epub 2010 Oct 2.

Abstract

There are classes of microbial enzymes that have the ability to degrade harmful organophosphorus (OP) compounds that are present in some pesticides and nerve agents. To date, the most studied and potentially important OP-degrading enzymes are organophosphorus hydrolase (OPH) and organophosphorus acid anhydrolase (OPAA), which have both been characterized from a number of organisms. Here we provide an update of what is experimentally known about OPH and OPAA to include their structures, substrate specificity, and catalytic properties. Current and future potential applications of these enzymes in the hydrolysis of OP compounds are also addressed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aryldialkylphosphatase / chemistry*
  • Aryldialkylphosphatase / genetics
  • Aryldialkylphosphatase / metabolism
  • Bacteria / chemistry
  • Bacteria / enzymology
  • Bacterial Proteins / chemistry*
  • Bacterial Proteins / genetics
  • Bacterial Proteins / metabolism
  • Biocatalysis
  • Hydrolysis
  • Kinetics
  • Organophosphorus Compounds / chemistry*
  • Substrate Specificity

Substances

  • Bacterial Proteins
  • Organophosphorus Compounds
  • Aryldialkylphosphatase