Heterologous expression and characterisation of microcystinase

► The object of the study was MlrA, the only enzyme able to detoxify microcystins. ► MlrA was heterogously expressed in Escherichia coli. ► Heterologous host demonstrated high potency to eliminate microcystins. ► Kinetic study indicated that MlrA exhibits positive cooperativity towards microcystin.