Galactofuranosidases: From the Initial Activity Detection to the First Crystalline Structure

Elucidating the biosynthesis and metabolism of galactofuranosyl-containing glycoconjugates is crucial as this sugar is present in infectious microorganisms but not synthesized by mammals. This makes it a key target for understanding infection mechanisms and for the development of diagnostic methods and chemotherapeutic agents. The biosynthesis and metabolism of β-d-Galf-containing molecules involve several processing enzymes, such as UDP-Galp mutase (UGM), galactofuranosyl transferases, and galactofuranosidases. Structural elucidation of the latter has been delayed by several factors, although significant recent advances have been made. This review summarizes the discovery and functional characterization of the first galactofuranosidases using classical methods, leading up to the latest advancements, including the crystal structure of a bacterial galactofuranosidase, which will undoubtedly pave the way for the development of new tools for the control of related diseases.