The preponderance of P450s in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis genome

Kirsty J. McLean, Daniel Clift, D. Geraint Lewis, Muna Sabri, Philip R. Balding, Michael J. Sutcliffe, David Leys, Andrew W. Munro

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    The genome of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) encodes 20 different cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s). P450s are mono-oxygenases, which are historically considered to facilitate prokaryotic usage of unusual carbon sources. However, their preponderance in Mtb strongly indicates crucial physiological functions, as does the fact that polycyclic azoles (known P450 inhibitors) have potent anti-mycobacterial effects. Recent structural and enzyme characterization data reveal novel features for at least two Mtb P450s (CYP121 and CYP51). Genome analysis, knockout studies and structural comparisons signify important roles in cell biology and pathogenesis for various P450s and redox partner enzymes in Mtb. Elucidation of structure, function and metabolic roles will be essential in targeting the P450s as an 'Achilles heel' in this major human pathogen. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)220-228
    Number of pages8
    JournalTrends in Microbiology
    Volume14
    Issue number5
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - May 2006

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