Characterization of JBURE-IIb isoform of Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC urease

► A cDNA encoding the isoform JBURE-IIb of Canavalia ensiformis urease was cloned. ► Comparative modeling and phylogenetic analysis of JBURE-IIb were performed. ► Proteomic analysis of C. ensiformis indicated that jbure-IIb is a functional gene. ► The full length jbure-IIb cDNA was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. ► Biological properties of JBURE-IIb point to a protective role of ureases in plants.