Hydroxynitrilase

Hydroxynitrilase is a type of enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of cyanohydrins to their corresponding carboxylic acid and hydrogen cyanide. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the detoxification of cyanohydrins in plants and some bacteria.

Structure

Hydroxynitrilase is a protein that is composed of multiple subunits. Each subunit contains a catalytic site where the reaction takes place. The structure of the enzyme is highly conserved among different species, suggesting its importance in biological processes.

Function

The primary function of hydroxynitrilase is to detoxify cyanohydrins, which are toxic compounds produced by some plants and bacteria. The enzyme achieves this by converting cyanohydrins into less toxic compounds, namely carboxylic acids and hydrogen cyanide.

Biological Significance

Hydroxynitrilase plays a crucial role in the survival of plants and bacteria that produce cyanohydrins. By detoxifying these compounds, the enzyme prevents them from causing harm to the organism. In addition, the products of the reaction catalyzed by hydroxynitrilase, carboxylic acids, and hydrogen cyanide, can be used by the organism for other purposes.

Industrial Applications

Due to its ability to catalyze the conversion of cyanohydrins to carboxylic acids and hydrogen cyanide, hydroxynitrilase has potential applications in the chemical industry. For example, it can be used in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.

File:Hydroxynitrilase.jpg

Hydroxynitrilase enzyme

See Also

• Enzyme
• Cyanohydrins
• Carboxylic acid
• Hydrogen cyanide
• Detoxification