Reaction: phenylacetonitrile + [reduced NADPHhemoprotein reductase] + O2 = (R)-mandelonitrile + [oxidized NADPHhemoprotein reductase] + H2O
Other name(s): CYP3201B1 (gene name)
Systematic name: phenylacetonitrile,[reduced NADPHhemoprotein reductase]:oxygen oxidoreductase [(R)-mandelonitrile-forming]
Comments: The enzyme has been characterized from the cyanogenic millipede Chamberlinius hualienensis. Unlike plant enzymes that can catalyse this reaction (EC 1.14.14.44, phenylacetaldehyde oxime monooxygenase), this enzyme cannot act on phenylacetaldehyde oximes. It can accept (4-hydroxyphenyl)acetonitrile, (2-methylphenyl)acetonitrile, and (3-methylphenyl)acetonitrile as substrates at a lower rate.
Links to other databases: BRENDA, EXPASY, KEGG, Metacyc, CAS registry number:
References:
1. Yamaguchi, T., Kuwahara, Y. and Asano, Y. A novel cytochrome P450, CYP3201B1, is involved in (R)-mandelonitrile biosynthesis in a cyanogenic millipede. FEBS Open Bio 7 (2017) 335-347. [PMID: 28286729]