Identification of a mammalian-type phosphatidylglycerophosphate phosphatase in the eubacterium Rhodopirellula baltica

Abstract

Background: PTPMT1 is the mitochondrial phosphatidylglycerophosphate (PGP) phosphatase essential for the biosynthesis of cardiolipin, an integral component of mitochondrial and bacterial membranes. Results: A PTPMT1-like phosphatase in the bacterium Rhodopirellula baltica has similar PGP phosphatase activity as its mammalian ortholog. Conclusion: PTPMT1 is evolutionarily conserved. Significance: The existence of a mammalian-type PGP phosphatase in bacteria provides new insight into the evolution of cardiolipin metabolism.© 2013 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.