Structural Basis of Malodour Precursor Transport in the Human Axilla
March 2018
TLDR The study identified a key protein involved in producing underarm odor and found ways to inhibit it.
The study identified and determined the crystal structure of a transporter protein for S-Cys-Gly-3M3SH in Staphylococcus hominis, which is involved in producing underarm odor. Using E. coli for genetic manipulation, the researchers conducted transport and functional assays, finding that di- and tripeptides inhibit 3M3SH production, supporting the role of the SH1446 protein as the major transporter. They highlighted the adaptability of the binding site within the POT family of transporters and calculated a turnover number of approximately 10 per minute for the wild-type transporter. The study noted limitations due to the inability to genetically manipulate S. hominis and the need for further verification of the transporter's turnover rate.
