cyanohydrinase

Cyanohydrinase is an enzyme that catalyzes the reversible hydration of nitriles to amides. It belongs to the amidohydrolase class of enzymes and is found in various microorganisms. The reaction catalyzed by cyanohydrinase is the addition of water across the triple bond of a nitrile, forming a cyanohydrin intermediate. This intermediate can then be further hydrolyzed to an amide. Alternatively, in the reverse reaction, cyanohydrinase can catalyze the dehydration of amides to nitriles, with the release of water. The enzyme plays a role in the metabolism of nitriles in the organisms where it is present. It is of interest in biotechnology for its potential applications in the synthesis of various chemical compounds, including pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. The enzyme's ability to perform this hydration reaction under mild conditions makes it an attractive biocatalyst. Research into cyanohydrinases focuses on understanding their catalytic mechanisms, improving their stability and activity through protein engineering, and exploring their use in industrial processes. The stereoselectivity of some cyanohydrinases can also be exploited for the asymmetric synthesis of chiral compounds.