Semester:Week 4Enzymes are at the forefront of biological metabolism, regulation and catalysis. Specifically speaking, carboxypeptidases are essential proteases excreted from your pancreas that break down peptides/proteins in your intestine. This week we had the privilege of having the "pseudo-biochemist", Dr. Lyons, from the biology department, here at Andrews University, come speak about his research on metallocarboxypeptidases, such as carboxypeptidase O. There are 23 different carboxypeptidases that all have distinct structures and have different proteolytic acitivity. Dr. Lyons has studied a few of these enzymes and characterized their function and expression.He is currently studying the genome of zebra fish and where these carboxypeptidases are expressed in the body and what tissues they are most commonly found in. Zebra fish can easily be manipulated and observed throughout its development. Carboxypeptidase O, has a unknown function and location of expression. Not only does Dr. Lyons want to understand the expression and function of many of the carboxypetidases, he also has a keen interest in this little known carboxypeptidase O.What was particularly intriguing was the use of the FTIR and AFM used to characterize the secondary structure of this particular enzyme. It illustrated the overlap of chemical and physical techniques used to unveil the understanding of biological molecules. What Dr. Lyons found was expression of in multiple organs. Not only that but, CBO is unique in the sense that it is expressed in specific tissues, has a specific substrate and its folding mechanism is unique because it does not have a pro-domain like the other peptidases that is thought to help in its folding.Overall, the presentation was very interesting and showed the interrelation among the biological and chemical sciences. I particularly am interested in the biochemical aspect of life. It was well put together and great to see the diversity of a single class of enzymes. I hope to collaborate and see what the future brings for Dr. Lyons.
