Crystal structure of a key enzyme in the agarolytic pathway, α-neoagarobiose hydrolase from Saccharophagus degradans 2-40

► We solved the structure of α-neoagarobiose hydrolase of Saccharophagus degradans 2-40 (SdNABH). ► Both a native and ligand (d-galactose) complex of SdNABH were determined. ► The position of bound ligand implies the +1 subsite of substrate in the binding pocket. ► Structural features and the cellular location of SdNABH infer evolution of agrolytic pathways.