PROPERTIES OF THE TRANSSULFURASE RESPONSIBLE FOR CONVERSION OF CYANIDE TO THIOCYANATE

Abstract

The trans-sulfurase responsible for the conversion of -CN to -CNS in the presence of =S2O3 had an optimal pH of 9.1 and a temp. optimum of 38[degree]-40[degree]C. In highly active prepns. of the enzyme (rabbit liver homogenates in water) the amt. of thiocyanate formed was a linear function of time. At a final -Cn concn. of 0.14 [image] the most effective ratio of -CN to =S2O3 was 1:3. Data obtained using inhibitors indicated that -SH groups were partly responsible for the activity and that the enzyme contained a heavy metal. It was suggested that the enzyme formed a loose combination with =S2O3 which broke down to yield S in a form which was accepted by the -CN.