Cysteine enrichment mediates co-option of uricase in reptilian skin and transition to uricotelism
G. Mori, A. Liuzzi, L. Ronda, M. Di Palma, M. S. Chegkazi, S. Bui, M. Garcia-Maya, J. Ragazzini, M. Malatesta, E. Della Monica, C. Rivetti, P. Antin, S. Bettati, R. A. Steiner, R. Percudani
This study identifies a cysteine-rich urate oxidase in chickens that retains urate oxidation but can also regenerate urate, suggesting a repurposed role in reptilian skin and uricotelism.
bioRxiv · Jun 2, 2023 · PreprintEvolutionary Biology