Biosynthesis of 4-thiouridine in tRNA in the methanogenic archaeon methanococcus maripaludis

Abstract

Background: Bacterial ThiI catalyzes 4-thiouridine biosynthesis by using a rhodanese-like domain for sulfur transfer. Results: ThiI in methanogenic archaea employs a conserved CXXC motif to generate persulfide and disulfide intermediates for sulfur transfer. Conclusion: Methanogens possess a unique sulfur relay strategy. Significance: Sulfur metabolism in methanogens is a model for the evolution of sulfur metabolism in the anaerobic sulfide-rich environments common on ancient earth. © 2012 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.