Hooked on α-d-galactosidases: from biomedicine to enzymatic synthesis

Abstract

α-d-Galactosidases (EC 3.2.1.22) are enzymes employed in a number of useful bio-based applications. We have depicted a comprehensive general survey of α-d-galactosidases from different origin with special emphasis on marine example(s). The structures of natural α-galactosyl containing compounds are described. In addition to 3D structures and mechanisms of action of α-d-galactosidases, different sources, natural function and genetic regulation are also covered. Finally, hydrolytic and synthetic exploitations as free or immobilized biocatalysts are reviewed. Interest in the synthetic aspects during the next years is anticipated for access to important small molecules by green technology with an emphasis on alternative selectivity of this class of enzymes from different sources.

• Biocatalysis
• biomedicine
• enzymatic synthesis
• galactosidases
• glycosidases
• marine biocatalysts
• oligosaccharides

Acknowledgements

Special thanks are due to the industrial research projects: PON01_02512 BIA-EPI Ricerca e Sviluppo di bioregolatori attivi sui meccanismi epigenetici dei processi infiammatori nelle malattie croniche e degenerative and PON “EnerbioChem Filiere agro-industriali integrate ad elevata efficienza energetica per la messa a punto di processi produzione eco-compatibili di energia e bio-chemicals da fonte rinnovabile e per la valorizzazione del territorio”.

Declaration of interest

This work was supported by the Short Term Mobility fund in favour of A.T. by Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche and by grants from RFBR 13-04-00806-a, FEB RAS 12-III-A-05-019 and Programm FEB RAS 12-I-П6-10.

Supplementary Material available online

Supplemental Parts 1–9.