Other bacterial metal-dependent enzymes in oral microbiota

Other bacterial metal-dependent enzymes in oral microbiota refers to a broad category of enzymes produced by bacteria in the oral cavity that require metal ions such as zinc, iron, manganese, or nickel for their catalytic activity (Supuran, C. T., 2011, Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry). These enzymes are vital for bacterial survival and pathogenesis; for instance, bacterial carbonic anhydrases and ureases are essential for pH homeostasis, allowing organisms like Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis to survive acidic or fluctuating environments (Burne & Marquis, 2000, Applied and Environmental Microbiology). Other members of this group include superoxide dismutases that protect against oxidative stress and various metalloproteases that facilitate tissue degradation in periodontitis (Lynch & Kuramitsu, 2000, Microbiology and Molecular Biology Reviews). Because these enzymes are often distinct from their human counterparts or are essential for specific virulence factors, they are considered potential therapeutic targets for treating oral infections and biofilm-related diseases. However, the primary challenge in targeting these enzymes is achieving sufficient selectivity to avoid inhibiting human metalloenzymes, such as matrix metalloproteinases or human carbonic anhydrases, which could lead to adverse systemic effects (Nishimori et al., 2014, Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry).

Other names

Bacterial metalloenzymesOral bacterial metal-dependent enzymesBacterial metal-dependent enzymes

Inhibition of catalytic activity through competitive binding at the metal-containing active site or sequestration of essential metal cofactors.