Molecular mechanisms associated with xylan degradation by xanthomonas plant pathogens

Abstract

Background: The xylanolytic activity is important for adaptation of Xanthomonas phytopathogen to the phyllosphere. Results: XynB is a very efficient endo-xylanase activated by calcium ion, and XynA is a dimeric exo-oligoxylanase. Conclusion: XynB degrades xylan, releasing xylooligosaccharides that are substrate for XynA. Significance: This work elucidated the structural basis for the function of the xylanolytic enzymes from Xanthomonas.