Enzymes articles from across Nature Portfolio

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are defined by a conserved cysteine ligand to the heme iron that is crucial for catalytic function. Now, the discovery of several distinct families of non-canonical P450s that lack this cysteine ligand, including naturally occurring serine- and selenocysteine-ligated enzymes, is reported, thereby challenging a longstanding paradigm in P450 enzymology.

Isoflavone biosynthesis has been described in Fabaceae species. Here Zhao et al. show that Iridaceae plants have a distinct isoflavone biosynthetic pathway and suggest an ancient origin for isoflavone production in land plants.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) hydrolases have been extensively studied for their applications in plastic degradation, but the structural and mechanistic factors that limit their catalytic efficiency are not yet fully understood. Here, the authors identify the protruding, surface-exposed C-terminal loop (SEC-loop) in Cryptosporangium aurantiacum PETase that negatively impacts enzymatic activity by restricting productive access of enzyme to PET substrates.

HePTP selectively activates mono-phosphorylated p38α via KIM docking-induced conformational changes in the kinase hinge region, providing new insights into MAPK regulation.

Xylan is a complex plant polysaccharide with chemical decorations that shape its degradation. Here, the authors develop selective probes for xylanases targeting these structures in biological samples, offering a powerful approach for enzyme discovery and optimization for biotechnology.

Cytochrome P450s catalyze essential reactions and carry a strictly conserved proximal cysteine ligand. Here, we identify noncanonical P450s that harbor diverse proximal ligands, including serine and selenocysteine, expanding the P450 chemical space and providing opportunities for future discoveries.

RNA acetylation by NAT10 is linked to disease, but its catalytic mechanism is unclear. Here, the authors report cryo-EM structures of Chaetomium thermophilum NAT10 in complex with a cytidine-CoA probe with and without ADP.

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are defined by a conserved cysteine ligand to the heme iron that is crucial for catalytic function. Now, the discovery of several distinct families of non-canonical P450s that lack this cysteine ligand, including naturally occurring serine- and selenocysteine-ligated enzymes, is reported, thereby challenging a longstanding paradigm in P450 enzymology.

The Reagent Collaboration Network (Reclone) seeks to address the global asymmetry in research and development in biotechnology across the Global South through open sharing of biomaterials, protocols and knowledge. The end goal is to build an international community enabling more sustainable, equitable and decentralized reagent manufacturing. The initiative works through regional distribution hubs and nodes to provide local access to resources and expertise in reagent manufacturing.

RNA-based and RNA-targeting therapeutics have emerged as an important component of modern medicine development. Here, Nature Chemical Biology speaks to Maria Duca, Samie Jaffrey and Ling-Ling Chen about the most promising breakthroughs and the persistent technical hurdles involved in translating basic RNA research into clinical therapies. We discuss how emerging technologies, strategic funding and cross-sector collaborations are essential to overcome current bottlenecks and advance the clinical application of RNA-centered medicines.

We developed ROProx, a blue-light-activated, H₂O₂-free proximity labeling technology that uses the chemical probe BN2 and leverages the intrinsic tyrosyl radical of the peroxidase APEX2. Taking advantage of a dual-brake mechanism, ROProx enables rapid capture of dynamic protein complexes in cultured cells within seconds and within minutes in vivo.

Bioenzymatic fuel cells provide a metal-free alternative to power the next generation of microelectronic devices that will rely solely on widely available ingredients: carbon, cellulose, sugar and enzymes. Applicable to logistics trackers, wearable biosensors and single-use medical devices, bioenzymatic fuel cells enable the development of smart systems while reducing the environmental footprint.

Lipid phosphate phosphatases differentially regulate signaling by bioactive lipid phosphates, but the mechanisms are unclear. Research highlights the roles of phosphatidate and phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate in tetramer stabilization and their importance in this regulation.