Characterization of Enzymes for Betaine Synthesis in a Halophilic Methanogen
Author Information
Author(s): Lai Shu-Jung, Lai Mei-Chin
Primary Institution: National Chung Hsing University
Hypothesis
The halophilic methanoarchaeon Methanohalophilus portucalensis can synthesize the osmolyte betaine in response to salt stress.
Conclusion
The study found that the enzymes MpGSMT and MpSDMT are crucial for betaine synthesis in Methanohalophilus portucalensis, with their activities influenced by potassium and sodium ions.
Supporting Evidence
- The enzymes MpGSMT and MpSDMT were shown to retain functional activity in E. coli.
- Potassium and sodium ions significantly enhanced the methyltransferase activities of MpGSMT.
- Betaine and AdoHcy were found to inhibit the activity of MpGSMT.
Takeaway
This study shows how a tiny organism can make a special substance called betaine to help it survive in salty water.
Methodology
The genes for the enzymes were cloned and expressed in E. coli, and their activities were measured under varying salt concentrations.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on in vitro conditions, which may not fully replicate the in vivo environment of the organism.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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