cyanohydrinases

Cyanohydrinases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of cyanohydrins, which are organic compounds containing a cyano group (–CN) attached to a hydroxyl group (–OH). These enzymes are found in various organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and plants. They play a crucial role in the metabolism of cyanohydrins, which are often toxic or have other undesirable properties. Cyanohydrinases are classified into two main types based on their mechanism of action: those that use a metal ion (usually zinc or iron) as a cofactor and those that do not. The former are often referred to as metallocyanohydrinases. The reaction catalyzed by cyanohydrinases typically proceeds through a nucleophilic attack by water on the carbon atom bearing the cyano group, leading to the formation of a carboxylic acid and ammonia. The study of cyanohydrinases is important in biochemistry and organic chemistry, as they provide insights into enzyme mechanisms and can be used in biotechnological processes for the synthesis of valuable compounds.