InterPro domain: IPR038438

This entry represents a conserved domain with an Ig-like fold found in a group of zinc metallopeptidases the belong to MEROPS peptidase family M1 (aminopeptidase N, clan MA); the majority are identified as alanyl aminopeptidases (proteobacteria) that are closely related to E. coli PepN and presumed to have a similar (not identical) function. Nearly all are found in proteobacteria, but members are found also in cyanobacteria, plants, and apicomplexan parasites [ 1 , 2 ]. This group differs greatly in sequence from the family of aminopeptidases typified by Streptomyces lividans PepN ( IPR012778 ) and from the membrane bound aminopeptidase N family in animals.

1. Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae metalloprotease: cloning and in vivo expression. FEMS Microbiol. Lett. 234, 81-6
2. PepN is the major aminopeptidase in Escherichia coli: insights on substrate specificity and role during sodium-salicylate-induced stress. Microbiology (Reading, Engl.) 149, 3437-47