oBfa1

oBfa1 is a protein found in the bacterium Bifidobacterium adolescentis. It belongs to the glycoside hydrolase family, specifically a member of the GH43 family. Proteins in this family are known for their ability to break down complex carbohydrates, such as plant-based polysaccharides. oBfa1 has been characterized for its enzymatic activity against xylo-oligosaccharides, which are derived from xylan, a major component of plant cell walls.

The enzyme's primary function is to hydrolyze the beta-1,4 glycosidic bonds within xylo-oligosaccharides. This process releases smaller sugar units, like xylose, which can then be utilized by the bacterium for energy. Bifidobacteria, including B. adolescentis, are commonly found in the gut microbiota of mammals and are often considered beneficial due to their ability to ferment dietary fibers that humans cannot digest on their own.

The discovery and characterization of oBfa1 contribute to our understanding of how gut bacteria interact with dietary fiber. This knowledge is relevant to fields such as nutrition, gut health, and the development of prebiotics. Research into oBfa1 may also have implications for industrial applications, such as the breakdown of plant biomass for biofuel production or the food industry for modifying carbohydrate structures. Its specific substrate specificity and catalytic mechanism are areas of ongoing scientific investigation.