New Family of Phosphoinositide Phosphatases in Microorganisms
Author Information
Author(s): Beresford Nicola J, Saville Charis, Bennett Hayley J, Roberts Ian S, Tabernero Lydia
Primary Institution: University of Manchester
Hypothesis
Can we identify and characterize a new family of phosphoinositide phosphatases in microorganisms using a diagnostic motif?
Conclusion
This study identifies a new family of enzymes in microorganisms that have distinct biochemical characteristics compared to classic eukaryotic lipid phosphatases and no homologues in humans.
Supporting Evidence
- More than 200 uncharacterized putative phosphatase sequences were identified in bacteria.
- Biochemical characterization confirmed phosphatase activity in selected proteins from Listeria monocytogenes and Leishmania major.
- The study provides evidence that the number of basic residues in the P-loop is critical for activity towards poly-phosphoinositides.
Takeaway
Scientists found a new group of enzymes in bacteria that help them survive in host cells, and these enzymes are different from those found in humans.
Methodology
Bioinformatics searches were conducted to identify related sequences, followed by biochemical characterization of selected proteins.
Limitations
The biological role of the identified phosphatases remains unknown, and many sequences are uncharacterized.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website