Microbial Tyrosinase: Biochemical, Molecular Properties and Pharmaceutical Applications

Tyrosinase is a copper-containing monooxygenase involved in thecatalysis of the hydroxylation and oxidation reaction of monophenols and diphenols, respectively, into O-quinones intermediates. Tyrosinase is mainly involved in melanogenesis via two reactions. Firstly, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine is produced through tyrosine hydroxylation the nit oxidized into dopaquinone, and finally gives melanin. However, dopaquinones can results in neuronal damage and cell death through the excessive production, suggesting that tyrosinase may be implanted in the formation human brain’s neuromelanin and association with Parkinson’s diseases. Thus, down regulating the melanin pigments and its intermediates by inhibiting tyrosinase activity is the major pharmaceutical challenge to prevent hyperpigmentation, in addition to therapy of neuromelanin disorders. Thus, this review has been focused on exploring the biochemical and molecular properties of tyrosinase from different sources and its potential inhibition with different natural and synthetic compounds.