Genes encoding desulfurization enzymes

• Main Authors: Ishii, Yoshitaka, Konishi, Jin, Hirasawa, Kazuaki, Okada, Hideki, Suzuki, Masanori
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 19.08.2003

The present invention relates to enzymes having the function of decomposing, using microorganisms, thiophene compounds, namely benzothiophene, dibenzothiophene (hereinafter referred to as "DBT") and their substituted compounds, or derivatives thereof, and genes encoding the enzymes. By using the enzymes and the gene defined in the present invention, sulfur can be released from benzothiophene, DBT and their substituted compounds, or derivatives thereof which are contained in fossil fuels such as petroleum. As a result, sulfur, which is generally diffused in the air when fossil fuels such as petroleum and coal are burned, can be easily removed from the fossil fuel. This invention provides novel genes encoding enzymes which decompose difficult-to-decompose thiophene compounds. By using these genes, sulfur atoms can be released from the thiophene compounds in fossil fuel such as petroleum, and the diffusion of sulfur into the environment caused by the combustion of the fossil fuel can be prevented.