Background:The catalytic mechanism and substrate recognition required for cleavage of the ␣-linkage in agarose are unclear.Results: Structural analysis of a family 117 glycoside hydrolase details substrate recognition and supports an inverting mechanism. Conclusion: GH117 enzymes use substrate distortion and an unusual general acid for catalysis. Significance: Microbes may utilize alternate strategies to catalyze the degradation of polysaccharides with unique structural characteristics.
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