A New Enzyme, Agmatine Oxidase, from Fungi

Abstract

A new enzyme, agmatine oxidase, was found in Penicillium chrysogenum. The oxidation products of agmatine with the enzyme were identified as γ-guanidinobutyraldehyde, NH₃ and H₂O₂. Theenzymerapidlyoxidizedagmatine, and slightly oxidized histamine, putrescine, 1, 3-diaminopropane and cadaverine. Monoamines, polyamines and guanidyl derivatives were not oxidized by the enzyme. Maximal formation of the enzyme of P. chrysogenum was observed in the early stationary phase of growth, and thereafter the enzyme disappeared with consumption of substrate. In addition to agmatine, spermine, spermidine and putrescine were also effective as nitrogen sources. Agmatine oxidase was found in mycelia of fungi belonging to the genera of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Absidia, Fusarium, Mucor, Gibberella, Cylindrocarpon and Monascus when they were grown in agmatine-containing medium.