(116ax) Inverse PCR as a Method to Isolate New Drug Metabolizing Genes from Actinoplanes Sp Atcc 53771

Cytochrome P450 enzymes belong to a “superfamily” of haemoproteins that catalyze the enzymatic oxidation of both exogenous and endogenous compounds. One important function of this class of enzymes is to oxidize drugs, making them easier to purge from the body. During this process, secondary metabolites are produced which may or may not be more toxic to the host organism. From previous work, Actinoplanes sp ATCC 53771 has been shown to produce relevant secondary metabolites when certain drugs are added to the system. The focus of this research was to optimize an Inverse PCR technique to extend the gene sequence of several partial P450 genes for use in future drug metabolism studies. Five P450s were successfully extended using this technique.