The quest for new robust bacterial monoamine oxidases

FEBS J. 2024 Mar;291(5):846-848. doi: 10.1111/febs.17002. Epub 2023 Nov 27.

Abstract

Microbial enzymes are versatile, cost-effective, and sustainable tools, making them a preferred choice for enzymatic processes. Santema et al. harnessed AlphaFold, a cutting-edge structure prediction tool, to discover new thermophilic monoamine oxidases (MAO) that could be relevant for drug development and use in biotechnology fields. The new enzyme displays thermal robustness, offering a unique structure-to-function profile compared to known MAOs. This bacterial enzyme, paired with recent advancements in enzyme engineering, has the potential to meet the biotech sector's need for customized enzymes.

Keywords: alkylamines; biocatalysis; drug development; enzyme discovery; flavo-oxidases; thermophiles.

MeSH terms

  • Biotechnology*
  • Drug Development*
  • Monoamine Oxidase / genetics

Substances

  • Monoamine Oxidase