M. Malatesta

Cysteine enrichment mediates co-option of uricase in reptilian skin and transition to uricotelism

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.

(R)-1-hydroxy-2-aminoethylphosphonate ammonia-lyase, a new PLP-dependent enzyme involved in bacterial phosphonate degradation

This study identifies PbfA as a novel PLP-dependent enzyme that catalyzes the elimination of (R)-1-hydroxy-2-aminoethylphosphonate to generate phosphonoacetaldehyde, expanding the bacterial phosphonate degradation pathway.