The Activity and Origin of Chitinases in the Gut of the Mediterranean Gecko

Alec John

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

2024

Abstract

Chitin is a major component of the exoskeleton of arthropods and the cell wall of fungi. This aminopolysaccharide polymer provides structure and protection to these organisms and represents a significant barrier to digestion of arthropod prey and fighting fungal infections. Chitinases are enzymes that break down chitin. Smaller insectivores, based upon the higher surface-to-volume ratio of their even smaller prey, ingest a larger amount of chitin per unit prey item. Therefore, they represent high-likelihood opportunities to bioprospect for novel chitinases that may figh pathogenic fungi. Fungal infections are notoriously difficult to treat, and they are the cause of ailments whose severity ranges from mild skin irritation to systemic infections resulting in mortality. This study documents the activity of chitinase produced by a small vertebrate insectivore, the Mediterranean Gecko, and determines its source for future studies that will test the efficacy of these enzymes against potentially pathogenic fungi.

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Poster Session
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