B38-CAP is a bacteria-derived ACE2-like enzyme that suppresses hypertension and cardiac dysfunction.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is critically involved in cardiovascular physiology and pathology, and is currently clinically evaluated to treat acute lung failure. Here we show that the B38-CAP, a carboxypeptidase derived from Paenibacillus sp. B38, is an ACE2-like enzyme to decrease angiotensin II levels in mice.

Effects of rubber elongation factor and small rubber particle protein from rubber-producing plants on lipid metabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The common proteins rubber elongation factor (REF) and small rubber particle protein (SRPP) are associated with Hevea brasiliensis (Hb) rubber particles. They are involved in the stability of rubber particles and natural rubber biosynthesis. Recently, we cloned cDNAs encoding REF and SRPP from laticifers of Ficus carica (Fc).

Cloning and Aggregation Characterization of Rubber Elongation Factor and Small Rubber Particle Protein from Ficus carica.

Rubber elongation factor (REF) and small rubber particle protein (SRPP) are major latex proteins harvested from Hevea brasiliensis (the rubber tree; HbREF and HbSRPP, respectively). Their amino acid sequences exhibit high homology with each other. In the present study, we cloned two cDNAs encoding REF/SRPP-family proteins (FcREF/SRPP-1 and -2) from the laticifers of Ficus carica (fig tree).