Modelling the covalent intermediates of the nitrilase superfamily
The nitrilase superfamily, which includes amidases, are thiol enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis and condensation of non-peptide, carbon-nitrogen linkages. The mechanism of action of these enzymes remains unknown – but substantial insight has been gained from our studies of the closely related amidases. All the enzymes have a structurally conserved active site grouping comprising two…