Bacterial-like Nitroreductase (NR)

Bacterial-like nitroreductases are flavoenzymes that catalyze the NAD(P)H-dependent reduction of nitro groups on nitroaromatic and nitroheterocyclic compounds. They are widely distributed among bacteria and have homologs in archaea and eukaryotes. They play a role in bioremediation of environmental pollutants and are used in gene-directed enzyme-prodrug therapy (GDEPT) for cancer treatment. These enzymes reduce nitro groups to amino or hydroxylamino groups and have broad substrate specificity.

Other names

NitroreductaseNfnBNR from Enterobacter cloacae

NAD(P)H-dependent reduction of nitro groups on nitroaromatic and nitroheterocyclic compounds, often used to activate prodrugs.