Molybdenum-Dependent Enzyme (Molybdoenzyme)

Molybdenum-dependent enzymes, also known as molybdoenzymes, are a diverse group of enzymes that require the trace element molybdenum (Mo) as an essential cofactor for their catalytic activity. These enzymes are found across all domains of life and play critical roles in key biological processes, particularly in the global cycles of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur. The active site of most molybdoenzymes contains a unique prosthetic group called the molybdenum cofactor (Moco), which consists of a molybdenum atom coordinated by one or two organic molecules known as pyranopterin or molybdopterin. In humans, four well-characterized molybdoenzymes exist: Sulfite oxidase, Xanthine oxidoreductase (includes xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase), Aldehyde oxidase, and Mitochondrial amidoxime reducing component (mARC). These catalyze reactions such as oxidation/reduction involving small molecules—e.g., conversion of sulfite to sulfate or xanthine to uric acid.

Other names

Molybdoenzymes