Functional assignment of gene AAC16202.1 from Rhodobacter capsulatus SB1003: New insights into the bacterial SDR sorbitol dehydrogenases family

► New conserved sequence blocks have been described for bacterial SDR196C family. ► These blocks will allow the correct functional assignment of incoming sequences. ► The blocks play important roles in the specificity, mechanism and structure of SDH. ► The enzyme has the lowest relative activity toward xylitol and good stability. ► Two properties for commercial specific determination of sorbitol in natural foods.