Aminopeptidases isolated from plants of great economic value – role and characteristics
Joanna KANIA*, Danuta GILLNER – Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland

Please cite as: CHEMIK 2015, 69, 8, 463–468

Aminopeptidases (EC 3.4.11.XX) belong to the group of  proteases, important enzymes which play key roles in many life  processes. They catalyze the hydrolysis of amino acids located at  the N-terminus of peptide and are involved in proteins degradation  to free amino acids. Leucine aminopeptidase (LAP, EC 3.4.11.1)  typically belong to the M1 or M17 family and preferably hydrolyse  leucine (Leu) from N-terminus of proteins.  Several types of aminopeptidases are usually identified in one plant.  They are responsible for different activities. Some studies focused on  the role of aminopeptidases in the life processes, revealed that leucine  aminopeptidases are involved in the process of plant aging (wilting),  germination, protective processes, transport of auxins or meiosis.

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