Enzymatic degradation of PrPSc by a protease secreted from Aeropyrum pernix K1.

Background: An R30 fraction from the growth medium of Aeropyrum pernix was analyzed for the protease that can digest the pathological prion protein isoform (PrP(Sc)) from different species (human, bovine, deer and mouse).

Methodology/principal Findings: Degradation of the PrP(Sc) isoform by the R30 fraction and the purified protease was evaluated using the 6H4 anti-PrP monoclonal antibody. Fragments from the N-terminal and C-terminal of PrP(Sc) were also monitored by Western blotting using the EB8 anti-PrP monoclonal antibody, and by dot blotting using the C7/5 anti-PrP monoclonal antibody, respectively.

Characterisation and expression of a gene encoding a mutarotase from the fungus Rhizopus nigricans.

A gene coding for a mutarotase was isolated and characterised from the filamentous fungus Rhizopus nigricans. In order to determine the encoded enzyme's activity a recombinant protein was prepared in the baculovirus expression system and the mutarotase activity was determined. Expression studies showed that the gene is repressed by high as well as low concentrations of glucose and derepressed during deficiency of glucose.