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Chitinase in female Onchocerca gibsoni and its inhibition by allosamidin
G W Gooday1, L J Brydon, L H Chappell
1Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Aberdeen, U.K.
Abstract:
Chitinase activity has been detected in female worms of Onchocerca gibsoni. With 3,4-dinitrophenyl-tetra-N-acetylchitotetraoside as substrate 50% of maximum activity was achieved at about 25 microM substrate, with inhibition above 50 microM substrate. The antibiotic allosamidin very strongly inhibited the chitinase activity, 50% inhibition being achieved by 200 pM allosamidin in the presence of 45 microM substrate.
Insights
Female Onchocerca gibsoni worms exhibit chitinase activity, which is significantly inhibited by the antibiotic allosamidin. This finding is crucial for understanding parasitic helminth biochemistry and potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Onchocerca gibsoni is a nematode parasite causing significant health issues.
- Chitinase enzymes play vital roles in various biological processes, including parasite development and survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of chitinase activity in female Onchocerca gibsoni.
- To evaluate the inhibitory effects of the antibiotic allosamidin on this enzyme activity.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme assays were performed using 3,4-dinitrophenyl-tetra-N-acetylchitotetraoside as a substrate.
- The impact of varying substrate concentrations on enzyme activity was determined.
- The inhibitory effect of allosamidin at specific concentrations was quantified.
Main Results:
- Chitinase activity was detected in female Onchocerca gibsoni.
- Enzyme activity showed substrate inhibition at concentrations above 50 microM.
- Allosamidin demonstrated potent inhibition, with 50% inhibition achieved at 200 pM.
Conclusions:
- Female Onchocerca gibsoni possess chitinase activity that is sensitive to substrate concentration.
- Allosamidin is a strong inhibitor of Onchocerca gibsoni chitinase, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent.