PLP-dependent enzymes as potential drug targets for protozoan diseases

The chemical properties of the B6 vitamers are uniquely suited for wide use as cofactors in essential reactions, such as decarboxylations and transaminations. This review addresses current efforts to explore vitamin B6 dependent enzymatic reactions as drug targets. Several current targets are described that are found amongst these enzymes. The focus is set on diseases caused by protozoan parasites. Comparison across a range of these organisms allows insight into the distribution of potential targets, many of which may be of interest in the development of broad range anti-protozoan drugs. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Pyridoxal Phosphate Enzymology.

► The genomes of fifteen protozoan parasites were analyzed for PLP-dependent enzymes.
► A minimal set of three PLP-dependent enzymes is identified in the order of Piroplasmida.
► This minimal set of PLP-dependent enzymes is observed with the highest frequency among the organisms analyzed.
► The PLP-dependent enzymes identified are potential candidates for the development of anti-protozoan drugs.
► The current state of affairs for some enzymes is discussed and future directions of research are suggested.