Information About

Tyrosinase





CHEMICAL REACTIONS

Tyrosinase carries out the oxidation of phenols such as tyrosine and catechol using Dioxygen (O2). In the presence of Catechol , Benzoquinone is formed (see reaction below). Hydrogens removed from catechol combine with Oxygen to form Water .

The active site in the tyrosinase enzyme contains two closely located copper atoms that interact with Dioxygen to form a highly reactive chemical intermediate that then oxidizes the Substrate . The activity of tyrosinase is similar to Catechol Oxidase , a related class of copper Oxidase s.


REFERENCES