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Natural nitriles and their metabolism

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Abstract

The present work reviews the numerous nitrile compounds that have been isolated from plants and animals. Two kinds of potentially toxic molecules are widespread, namely the cyanogenic glycosides and cyanollpids. Many other aromatic and allphatic nitriles are synthesized to a lesser extent. Different studies on the synthesis and degradation of these cyanogenic compounds are also reviewed to emphasize the potential use of different microorganisms for the detoxification of food and foodstuff.

Résumé

Ce travail passe en revue les nombreux composés nitrillques qui ont été isolés du royaume des plantes et animaux. Deux types de molécules à potentiel toxique sont largement répandus, notamment les glycosides cyanogènes et les cyanolipides. De nombreux autres nitriles aromatiques et alystatiques sont synthétisés dans une moindre mesure. Diverses études sur la synthèse et la dégradation de ces composés cyanogenes sont également passés en revue afin de mettre en évidence l'emploi putalli des différents microorganismes pour la detoxification de denrées et matières alimentalres.

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  1. ENSA-INRA, Place Viala, 34060, Montpellier Cedex, France

    J. L. Legras, A. Arnaud (Professors of Genetics and Microbiology) & P. Galzy

  2. CEEMAT-CIRAD, Avenue du Val de Montferrand, BP 5035, 34032, Montpellier Cedex, France

    G. Chuzel (Professors of Genetics and Microbiology)

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  1. J. L. Legras
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Legras, J.L., Chuzel, G., Arnaud, A. et al. Natural nitriles and their metabolism. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 6, 83–108 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01200927

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