Oxalate metabolism enzymes of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA14 (OXC/FRC system)

Lactobacillus acidophilus LA14 is a probiotic bacterium that expresses a specific set of enzymes dedicated to the degradation of oxalate, a common dicarboxylic acid found in leafy greens, nuts, and seeds. The primary components of this metabolic pathway are oxalyl-CoA decarboxylase (OXC) and formyl-CoA transferase (FRC), which work together to convert oxalate into formate and carbon dioxide within the gut lumen. By actively catabolizing oxalate before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream, these enzymes play a critical role in reducing the systemic burden of oxalate. This activity is particularly relevant for the prevention of calcium oxalate kidney stones, which form when high levels of oxalate are excreted by the kidneys. Therapeutic applications focus on using LA14 as a biotherapeutic agent to restore oxalate-degrading capacity in the gut microbiota of patients with hyperoxaluria or those at high risk for recurrent urolithiasis.

Other names

Oxalate-degrading enzymesOxalyl-CoA decarboxylase (OXC)Formyl-CoA transferase (FRC)Oxalate catabolic pathway

The enzymes facilitate the breakdown of dietary oxalate in the gastrointestinal tract. Formyl-CoA transferase (FRC) activates oxalate to oxalyl-CoA, which is then decarboxylated by oxalyl-CoA decarboxylase (OXC) into formate and carbon dioxide, thereby reducing the intestinal absorption of oxalate and its subsequent excretion in the urine.