Nitrilase structural properties

On the basis of sequence data and biochemical characterization, this chapter wiU compare the structure and enzymatic properties of nitrilases from filamentous fungi with those of prokaryotic and plant nitrilases as well as other related enzymes like cyanide hydratases and cyanide dihydratases. The biotechnological potential of fungal nitrilases will be evaluated. 

Robinson and Hook (1964) have synthesized a number of compounds structurally related to the naturally occurring nitrile ricinine (XCV) and have reported some of the properties of ricinine nitrilase, an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of ricinine as shown below ... 

Previous reviews of this field of research focused mainly on the biocatal5dic uses of nitrilases [1], structure and function of nitrilases [2, 3], nitrilases in filamentous fungi [4], stereoselective biotransformations catalyzed by nitrile-converting enz5nnes [5], and the structure, function, and uses of nitrile hydratases [6]. For a comprehensive review of nitrile-converting enzymes known at the time, the study by Banerjee et al. [7] has been helpful. Some of the most recent reviews focused on nitrilases, specifically their sources, properties, and use, [8], and on methodologies for their screening [9]. 

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