Insect multicopper oxidases: diversity, properties, and physiological roles.
Insect Biochem Mol Biol
; 40(3): 179-88, 2010 Mar.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-20219675
ABSTRACT
Multicopper oxidases (MCOs) are a group of related proteins that are ubiquitous in nature. They perform a wide variety of functions including pigmentation, lignin synthesis and degradation, iron homeostasis, and morphogenesis. The laccases of fungi are intensely studied for their biotechnological potential as a more environmentally friendly alternative to harsh or toxic chemicals used for certain industrial applications. Research into insect MCOs has recently attracted renewed interest as it is evident that they have diverse roles in insect physiology. MCO mRNA or enzymatic activity has been detected in extracts from epidermis, midgut, Malpighian tubules, salivary glands, and reproductive tissues. Genome sequencing has allowed for the identification of MCO genes and revealed that the number of genes can vary between species. The function of one of the genes, MCO2, has been demonstrated to be a laccase-type phenoloxidase critical for cuticle sclerotization. However, the enzymatic properties and physiological functions of the remaining MCOs remain to be elucidated. A better understanding of the roles MCOs play in insect biology may help to develop new control measures of pest species.
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Oxirredutases
/
Insetos
Limite:
Animals
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Insect Biochem Mol Biol
Assunto da revista:
BIOLOGIA MOLECULAR
/
BIOQUIMICA
Ano de publicação:
2010
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Estados Unidos