Enzymology of Microbial Dimethylsulfoniopropionate Catabolism.

Authors :: Dey M
Source :: Advances in protein chemistry and structural biology [Adv Protein Chem Struct Biol] 2017; Vol. 109, pp. 195-222. Date of Electronic Publication: 2017 Jun 23.
Publication Year :: 2017
Abstract: The biochemistry of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) catabolism is reviewed. The microbes that catalyze the reactions central to DMSP catabolic pathways are described, and the focus is on the enzymology of the process. Approximately 10 <superscript>9</superscript> tons of DMSP is released annually by marine eukaryotes as an osmolyte. A vast majority of DMSP is assimilated by bacteria through either a demethylation or lyase pathways, producing either the methane thiol or the volatile dimethylsulfide (DMS), respectively. Enzymatic breakdown of DMSP generates ~10 <superscript>7</superscript> tons of DMS annually, which may have impact on global climate. DMS also acts as a chemoattractant for zooplanktons and seabirds. Both DMSP and DMS play a key role in the global sulfur cycle and are key nutrients for marine microbial growth. Important enzymes in the biochemical pathways of DMSP catabolism are covered in this review, with a focus on the latest developments in their mechanism.<br /> (© 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)