Issue 8, 2008

Microbial cholesterol oxidases: bioconversion enzymes or signal proteins?

Abstract

Cholesterol oxidases (3β-hydroxysterol oxidases; EC 1.1.3.6), serve as catalysts for the initial step in the degradation of cholesterol, and probably other natural sterols, that are used as carbon sources for growth of different bacteria. Because of their suitability for attacking cholesterol they have been widely used for the quantification of cholesterol in clinical and food specimens. Cholesterol oxidase has also found application as a probe for membrane structure, as an insecticide, and has been implicated in bacterial pathogenesis. Recently, we have found that a Streptomycescholesterol oxidase is required for the biosynthesis of the antifungal polyenepimaricin, apparently acting as an antifungal sensor. Here we describe our current understanding of these fascinating enzymes.

Graphical abstract: Microbial cholesterol oxidases: bioconversion enzymes or signal proteins?

Article information

Article type
Highlight
Submitted
12 Nov 2007
Accepted
01 Apr 2008
First published
13 May 2008

Mol. BioSyst., 2008,4, 804-809

Microbial cholesterol oxidases: bioconversion enzymes or signal proteins?

J. F. Aparicio and J. F. Martín, Mol. BioSyst., 2008, 4, 804 DOI: 10.1039/B717500K

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