Abstract
The recently finished genome sequence of Ralstonia eutropha H16 harbors nine genes that are thought to encode functions for intracellular depolymerization (mobilization) of storage poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB). Based on amino acid similarities, the gene products belong to four classes (PhaZa1 to PhaZa5, PhaZb, PhaZc, and PhaZd1/PhaZd2). However, convincing direct evidence for the in vivo roles of the gene products is poor. In this study, we selected four candidate genes (phaZa1, phaZb, phaZc, and phaZd1) representing the four classes and investigated the physiological function of the gene products (i) with recombinant Escherichia coli strains and (ii) with R. eutropha null mutants. Evidence for weak but significant PHB depolymerase activity was obtained only for PhaZa1. The physiological roles of the other potential PHB depolymerases remain uncertain.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
