Evolution of mammalian chitinase(-like) members of family 18 glycosyl hydrolases.

ABSTRACT: Family 18 of glycosyl hydrolases encompasses chitinases and so-called chi-lectins lacking enzymatic activity due to amino acid substitutions in their active site. Both types of proteins widely occur in mammals although these organisms lack endogenous chitin. Their physiological function(s) as well as evolutionary relationships are still largely enigmatic. An overview of all family members is presented and their relationships are described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses suggest that both active chitinases (chitotriosidase and AMCase) result from an early gene duplication event. Further duplication events, followed by mutations leading to loss of chitinase activity, allowed evolution of the chi-lectins. The homologous genes encoding chitinase(-like) proteins are clustered in two distinct l

SUBMITTER: Bussink AP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2034658 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature