InterPro domain: IPR023091

This superfamily represents a domain found in a number of predicted metalloproteases. The crystal structure of the protein from the hyperthermophilic bacteria Aquifex aeolicus has been determined. The overall fold consists of one central alpha-helix surrounded by a four-stranded beta-sheet and four other alpha-helices. Structure-based homology analysis reveals a good resemblance to metalloproteases such as collagenases and gelatinases. However, experimental tests for collagenase and gelatinase-type function show no detectable activity under standard assay conditions [ 1 ].

1. Structure of the hypothetical protein AQ_1354 from Aquifex aeolicus. Acta Crystallogr. D Biol. Crystallogr. 59, 1219-23