A Novel Cooperative Metallo-β-Lactamase Fold Metallohydrolase from Pathogen Vibrio vulnificus Exhibits β-Lactam Antibiotic-Degrading Activities

Abstract

Vibrio vulnificus is a pathogen that accounts for one of the highest mortality rates and is responsible for most reported seafood-related illnesses and deaths worldwide. Owing to the threats of pathogens with β-lactamase activity, it is important to identify and characterize β-lactamases with clinical significance. In this study, the protein sequence of the metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) fold metallohydrolase from V. vulnificus (designated Vmh) was analyzed, and its oligomeric state, β-lactamase activity, and metal binding ability were determined.