hydA

UniProt ID: P07598
Organism: Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough)
Review Status: DRAFT
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Gene Description

hydA (DVU_1769) encodes the large catalytic subunit of a periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase (HydAB) in Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough. The enzyme catalyzes the reversible reaction 2 H+ + 2 e- <-> H2 (EC 1.12.7.2), functioning primarily in H2 oxidation during dissimilatory sulfate reduction. The HydA subunit contains the catalytic H-cluster (a diiron center linked to a [4Fe-4S] subcluster) and two additional [4Fe-4S] ferredoxin-type clusters that mediate electron transfer. The physiological electron acceptor is Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3), which shuttles electrons to membrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc, Qrc) for ultimate delivery to cytoplasmic sulfate reductases. The enzyme has high turnover with a Km for H2 of approximately 100 uM, is reversibly inhibited by CO, and can form an O2-protected inactive state likely involving sulfide ligation at the H-cluster. HydA forms a heterodimer with the small subunit HydB for full periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase activity.

Existing Annotations Review

GO Term Evidence Action Reason
GO:0005506 iron ion binding
IEA
GO_REF:0000002
ACCEPT
Summary: HydA contains multiple iron centers including three [4Fe-4S] clusters and a binuclear iron center at the H-cluster active site. X-ray crystallography at 1.6 A resolution (PMID:10368269) confirmed binding of iron ions through both the [4Fe-4S] clusters and the diiron active site. This annotation is accurate but less informative than the more specific 4Fe-4S cluster binding term.
Reason: The annotation is technically correct as confirmed by structural studies (PMID:10368269). HydA binds iron both in [4Fe-4S] clusters and in the binuclear H-cluster active site. However, this is a parent term of more specific annotations already present.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:10368269
The so-called H cluster of the enzyme is composed of a typical [4Fe-4S] cubane bridged to a binuclear active site Fe center
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
HydA contains the [FeFe]-hydrogenase H-cluster composed of a diiron center ligated to an atypical [4Fe-4S] subcluster. Two additional ferredoxin-like [4Fe-4S] clusters in HydA support intramolecular electron transfer
GO:0008901 ferredoxin hydrogenase activity
IEA
GO_REF:0000120
MODIFY
Summary: GO:0008901 describes catalysis of the reaction "2 reduced ferredoxin + 2 H+ = 2 oxidized ferredoxin + H2". While HydA does catalyze H2/proton interconversion, the physiological electron partner is NOT ferredoxin but rather Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3). Literature consistently identifies cytochrome c3 as the native electron carrier for periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase in D. vulgaris.
Reason: The reaction catalyzed is correct in principle (H2 interconversion), but the specified electron partner (ferredoxin) is incorrect for this periplasmic enzyme. The physiological electron carrier is cytochrome c3, not ferredoxin. GO:0047806 (cytochrome-c3 hydrogenase activity) describes "2 H2 + ferricytochrome c3 = 4 H+ + ferrocytochrome c3" which matches the physiological function of HydAB.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) is the principal periplasmic electron carrier interacting with periplasmic hydrogenases, including the [FeFe]-hydrogenase
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
Cytochrome c3 is likely to be the physiological electron carrier for the enzyme.
GO:0016491 oxidoreductase activity
IEA
GO_REF:0000043
ACCEPT
Summary: GO:0016491 is a very high-level term for oxidoreductase activity. HydA is indeed an oxidoreductase (EC 1.12.7.2), catalyzing electron transfer between H2 and cytochrome c3. However, this term is too general and more specific hydrogenase activity terms should be used.
Reason: While technically correct, this is a high-level parent term. The annotation derives from UniProtKB keyword mapping and accurately captures the oxidoreductase nature of the enzyme. More specific terms (GO:0047806 cytochrome-c3 hydrogenase activity) should also be present to provide specificity.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
EC=1.12.7.2
GO:0042597 periplasmic space
IEA
GO_REF:0000044
ACCEPT
Summary: HydA is unambiguously localized to the periplasmic space. This is supported by biochemical fractionation studies, the presence of an N-terminal signal peptide, and the functional requirement for interaction with periplasmic cytochrome c3.
Reason: Periplasmic localization is well-established from multiple lines of evidence including classical biochemical fractionation and spheroplast complementation experiments. UniProt annotation and deep research confirm periplasmic localization.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
SUBCELLULAR LOCATION: Periplasm.
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
HydAB in D. vulgaris Hildenborough is a periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase
GO:0046872 metal ion binding
IEA
GO_REF:0000043
ACCEPT
Summary: GO:0046872 is a very general term for metal ion binding. HydA binds iron in multiple contexts (Fe-S clusters, binuclear iron center). This annotation is correct but uninformative given more specific terms are available.
Reason: Technically correct as HydA binds iron ions extensively. This is a parent term of GO:0005506 (iron ion binding) which is also annotated. The annotation captures the general metal-binding property but more specific terms provide the mechanistic detail.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:10368269
The so-called H cluster of the enzyme is composed of a typical [4Fe-4S] cubane bridged to a binuclear active site Fe center
GO:0051536 iron-sulfur cluster binding
IEA
GO_REF:0000120
ACCEPT
Summary: HydA binds multiple iron-sulfur clusters: three [4Fe-4S] clusters (two ferredoxin-type and one as part of the H-cluster). This is well-established from X-ray crystallography and Mossbauer spectroscopy.
Reason: Accurate annotation supported by high-resolution structural data. The enzyme contains three [4Fe-4S] clusters that are essential for intramolecular electron transfer.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
Binds 3 [4Fe-4S] clusters per subunit.
PMID:11456963
It contains two ferredoxin type [4Fe-4S] clusters, termed the F clusters, and a catalytic H cluster
GO:0051539 4 iron, 4 sulfur cluster binding
IEA
GO_REF:0000043
ACCEPT
Summary: HydA specifically binds three [4Fe-4S] clusters: two ferredoxin-type clusters (at domains 26-57 and 59-86) and one [4Fe-4S] subcluster as part of the H-cluster active site. X-ray crystallography at 1.6 A resolution confirmed the cluster coordination.
Reason: Highly accurate and specific annotation. The [4Fe-4S] clusters are central to the electron transfer mechanism of the enzyme. Crystallographic evidence (PMID:10368269) and UniProt domain annotations confirm the presence of multiple 4Fe-4S ferredoxin-type domains.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
Binds 3 [4Fe-4S] clusters per subunit.
PMID:11456963
It contains two ferredoxin type [4Fe-4S] clusters, termed the F clusters, and a catalytic H cluster
GO:0047806 cytochrome-c3 hydrogenase activity
ISS
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
NEW
Summary: This is the most specific and accurate molecular function term for HydA. The enzyme catalyzes H2 oxidation with cytochrome c3 as the physiological electron acceptor, matching the reaction described by GO:0047806: "2 H2 + ferricytochrome c3 = 4 H+ + ferrocytochrome c3".
Reason: This annotation is missing from the current GOA set but represents the core molecular function of the enzyme. UniProt explicitly states cytochrome c3 as the physiological electron carrier, and deep research confirms Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) as the principal electron partner.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
Cytochrome c3 is likely to be the physiological electron carrier for the enzyme.
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) is the principal periplasmic electron carrier interacting with periplasmic hydrogenases, including the [FeFe]-hydrogenase
GO:0019420 dissimilatory sulfate reduction
ISS
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
NEW
Summary: HydA functions as an entry point for electrons into the dissimilatory sulfate reduction pathway. By oxidizing H2 in the periplasm and transferring electrons via cytochrome c3 to membrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc, Qrc), HydA supports the reduction of sulfate to H2S as the terminal electron acceptor.
Reason: No biological process annotation currently exists for HydA. The enzyme's role in dissimilatory sulfate reduction is well-documented and represents its primary physiological function in sulfate-respiring conditions.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
May be involved in hydrogen uptake for the reduction of sulfate to hydrogen sulfide in an electron transport chain.
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
H2 diffuses to the periplasm, where HydAB (HydA/HydB) and other periplasmic hydrogenases oxidize H2, delivering electrons to TpI-c3 and then across the membrane (via Hmc/Tmc/Qrc) to the cytoplasmic sulfate-reduction pathway
GO:1902421 hydrogen metabolic process
ISS
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
NEW
Summary: HydA catalyzes the reversible interconversion of H2 and protons, directly participating in hydrogen metabolism. While the enzyme can catalyze both H2 uptake and evolution, the primary in vivo function is H2 oxidation during sulfate respiration.
Reason: This biological process term captures the core metabolic role of the enzyme in H2 cycling. The hydrogen cycling model in Desulfovibrio is well-established.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
Core reaction: reversible interconversion of molecular hydrogen and protons/electrons, 2 H+ + 2 e
GO:0019645 anaerobic electron transport chain
ISS
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
NEW
Summary: HydA is a component of the anaerobic electron transport chain in sulfate-reducing bacteria. It oxidizes H2 and transfers electrons to cytochrome c3, which then delivers electrons to membrane complexes for ultimate transfer to cytoplasmic sulfate reductases.
Reason: HydA functions within an anaerobic electron transport chain where sulfate (not oxygen) serves as the terminal electron acceptor. The enzyme is a key entry point for electrons from H2 into this chain.
Supporting Evidence:
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
Electrons from periplasmic carriers are shuttled to cytoplasmic sulfate-reduction enzymes via multiheme transmembrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc) and the quinone-interfacing Qrc complex

Core Functions

HydA catalyzes the reversible reaction 2 H2 + ferricytochrome c3 = 4 H+ + ferrocytochrome c3, using Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) as the physiological electron acceptor. The enzyme contains an H-cluster active site with a diiron center and [4Fe-4S] subcluster, plus two additional [4Fe-4S] clusters for intramolecular electron transfer. Has Km for H2 of approximately 100 uM with high turnover. Functions in the periplasmic space to provide electrons from H2 oxidation for dissimilatory sulfate reduction.

References

Nucleotide sequence of the gene encoding the hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio vulgaris (Hildenborough).
The genome sequence of the anaerobic, sulfate-reducing bacterium Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough.
Identification of three classes of hydrogenase in the genus, Desulfovibrio.
Desulfovibrio desulfuricans iron hydrogenase: the structure shows unusual coordination to an active site Fe binuclear center.
  • X-ray crystal structure at 1.6 A resolution revealing [4Fe-4S] clusters and binuclear iron center
    "The so-called H cluster of the enzyme is composed of a typical [4Fe-4S] cubane bridged to a binuclear active site Fe center containing putative CO and CN ligands"
Mössbauer characterization of the iron-sulfur clusters in Desulfovibrio vulgaris hydrogenase.
  • Spectroscopic characterization of Fe-S clusters confirming three [4Fe-4S] clusters
    "It contains two ferredoxin type [4Fe-4S] clusters, termed the F clusters, and a catalytic H cluster"
Crystallographic and FTIR spectroscopic evidence of changes in Fe coordination upon reduction of the active site of the Fe-only hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio desulfuricans.
Gene Ontology annotation through association of InterPro records with GO terms
Gene Ontology annotation based on UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot keyword mapping
Gene Ontology annotation based on UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot Subcellular Location vocabulary mapping
Combined Automated Annotation using Multiple IEA Methods
file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
Deep research synthesis on hydA (P07598) in D. vulgaris Hildenborough
  • Comprehensive literature synthesis on HydA function
  • Confirms cytochrome c3 as physiological electron partner
  • Documents role in hydrogen cycling during sulfate respiration

Suggested Questions for Experts

Q: What is the precise stoichiometry of HydA:HydB in the active holoenzyme complex?

Q: Are there conditions under which the periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase operates in the H2-evolution direction in vivo?

Q: What are the specific regulatory mechanisms controlling hydA expression in response to H2 availability and sulfate levels?

Suggested Experiments

Experiment: Deletion mutant studies to quantify the contribution of HydAB specifically (versus other hydrogenases) to sulfate reduction with different electron donors.

Hypothesis: HydAB is the primary periplasmic hydrogenase responsible for H2 oxidation during sulfate respiration.

Type: Genetic deletion/complementation

Experiment: In vivo crosslinking studies to map the interaction interface between HydA and cytochrome c3.

Hypothesis: HydA interacts directly with cytochrome c3 via a specific protein-protein interface.

Type: Crosslinking mass spectrometry

Experiment: Time-resolved spectroscopy to characterize electron transfer kinetics between HydA and membrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc, Qrc).

Hypothesis: Electron transfer from HydA to membrane complexes occurs via cytochrome c3 as an obligate intermediate.

Type: Time-resolved spectroscopy

📚 Additional Documentation

Deep Research Falcon

(P07598-deep-research-falcon.md)

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organism: DESVH
gene_id: P07598
gene_symbol: hydA
uniprot_accession: P07598
protein_description: 'RecName: Full=Periplasmic [Fe] hydrogenase large subunit;
EC=1.12.7.2; AltName: Full=Fe hydrogenlyase;'
gene_info: Name=hydA; OrderedLocusNames=DVU_1769;
organism_full: Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (strain ATCC 29579 / DSM 644 / CCUG
34227 / NCIMB 8303 / VKM B-1760 / Hildenborough) (Desulfovibrio vulgaris).
protein_family: Not specified in UniProt
protein_domains: 4Fe4S_Fe-S-bd. (IPR017896); 4Fe4S_Fe_S_CS. (IPR017900); Cytosolic_Fe-S_CAF.
(IPR050340); Fe_hydrogenase. (IPR009016); Fe_hydrogenase_lsu_C. (IPR004108)
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citation_count: 22


Question

Gene Research for Functional Annotation

⚠️ CRITICAL: Gene/Protein Identification Context

BEFORE YOU BEGIN RESEARCH: You MUST verify you are researching the CORRECT gene/protein. Gene symbols can be ambiguous, especially for less well-characterized genes from non-model organisms.

Target Gene/Protein Identity (from UniProt):

  • UniProt Accession: P07598
  • Protein Description: RecName: Full=Periplasmic [Fe] hydrogenase large subunit; EC=1.12.7.2; AltName: Full=Fe hydrogenlyase;
  • Gene Information: Name=hydA; OrderedLocusNames=DVU_1769;
  • Organism (full): Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (strain ATCC 29579 / DSM 644 / CCUG 34227 / NCIMB 8303 / VKM B-1760 / Hildenborough) (Desulfovibrio vulgaris).
  • Protein Family: Not specified in UniProt
  • Key Domains: 4Fe4S_Fe-S-bd. (IPR017896); 4Fe4S_Fe_S_CS. (IPR017900); Cytosolic_Fe-S_CAF. (IPR050340); Fe_hydrogenase. (IPR009016); Fe_hydrogenase_lsu_C. (IPR004108)

MANDATORY VERIFICATION STEPS:

  1. Check if the gene symbol "hydA" matches the protein description above
  2. Verify the organism is correct: Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (strain ATCC 29579 / DSM 644 / CCUG 34227 / NCIMB 8303 / VKM B-1760 / Hildenborough) (Desulfovibrio vulgaris).
  3. Check if protein family/domains align with what you find in literature
  4. If you find literature for a DIFFERENT gene with the same or similar symbol, STOP

If Gene Symbol is Ambiguous or You Cannot Find Relevant Literature:

DO NOT PROCEED WITH RESEARCH ON A DIFFERENT GENE. Instead:
- State clearly: "The gene symbol 'hydA' is ambiguous or literature is limited for this specific protein"
- Explain what you found (e.g., "Found extensive literature on a different gene with the same symbol in a different organism")
- Describe the protein based ONLY on the UniProt information provided above
- Suggest that the protein function can be inferred from domain/family information

Research Target:

Please provide a comprehensive research report on the gene hydA (gene ID: P07598, UniProt: P07598) in DESVH.

The research report should be a detailed narrative explaining the function, biological processes, and localization of the gene product. Citations should be given for all claims.

You should prioritize authoritative reviews and primary scientific literature when conducting research. You can supplement
this with annotations you find in gene/protein databases, but these can be outdated or inaccurate.

We are specifically interested in the primary function of the gene - for enzymes, what reaction is catalyzed, and what is the substrate specificity? For transporters, what is the substrate? For structural proteins or adapters, what is the broader structural role? For signaling molecules, what is the role in the pathway.

We are interested in where in or outside the cell the gene product carries out its function.

We are also interested in the signaling or biochemical pathways in which the gene functions. We are less interested in broad pleiotropic effects, except where these elucidate the precise role.

Include evidence where possible. We are interested in both experimental evidence as well as inference from structure, evolution, or bioinformatic analysis. Precise studies should be prioritized over high-throughput, where available.

Output

Question: You are an expert researcher providing comprehensive, well-cited information.

Provide detailed information focusing on:
1. Key concepts and definitions with current understanding
2. Recent developments and latest research (prioritize 2023-2024 sources)
3. Current applications and real-world implementations
4. Expert opinions and analysis from authoritative sources
5. Relevant statistics and data from recent studies

Format as a comprehensive research report with proper citations. Include URLs and publication dates where available.
Always prioritize recent, authoritative sources and provide specific citations for all major claims.

Gene Research for Functional Annotation

⚠️ CRITICAL: Gene/Protein Identification Context

BEFORE YOU BEGIN RESEARCH: You MUST verify you are researching the CORRECT gene/protein. Gene symbols can be ambiguous, especially for less well-characterized genes from non-model organisms.

Target Gene/Protein Identity (from UniProt):

  • UniProt Accession: P07598
  • Protein Description: RecName: Full=Periplasmic [Fe] hydrogenase large subunit; EC=1.12.7.2; AltName: Full=Fe hydrogenlyase;
  • Gene Information: Name=hydA; OrderedLocusNames=DVU_1769;
  • Organism (full): Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (strain ATCC 29579 / DSM 644 / CCUG 34227 / NCIMB 8303 / VKM B-1760 / Hildenborough) (Desulfovibrio vulgaris).
  • Protein Family: Not specified in UniProt
  • Key Domains: 4Fe4S_Fe-S-bd. (IPR017896); 4Fe4S_Fe_S_CS. (IPR017900); Cytosolic_Fe-S_CAF. (IPR050340); Fe_hydrogenase. (IPR009016); Fe_hydrogenase_lsu_C. (IPR004108)

MANDATORY VERIFICATION STEPS:

  1. Check if the gene symbol "hydA" matches the protein description above
  2. Verify the organism is correct: Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (strain ATCC 29579 / DSM 644 / CCUG 34227 / NCIMB 8303 / VKM B-1760 / Hildenborough) (Desulfovibrio vulgaris).
  3. Check if protein family/domains align with what you find in literature
  4. If you find literature for a DIFFERENT gene with the same or similar symbol, STOP

If Gene Symbol is Ambiguous or You Cannot Find Relevant Literature:

DO NOT PROCEED WITH RESEARCH ON A DIFFERENT GENE. Instead:
- State clearly: "The gene symbol 'hydA' is ambiguous or literature is limited for this specific protein"
- Explain what you found (e.g., "Found extensive literature on a different gene with the same symbol in a different organism")
- Describe the protein based ONLY on the UniProt information provided above
- Suggest that the protein function can be inferred from domain/family information

Research Target:

Please provide a comprehensive research report on the gene hydA (gene ID: P07598, UniProt: P07598) in DESVH.

The research report should be a detailed narrative explaining the function, biological processes, and localization of the gene product. Citations should be given for all claims.

You should prioritize authoritative reviews and primary scientific literature when conducting research. You can supplement
this with annotations you find in gene/protein databases, but these can be outdated or inaccurate.

We are specifically interested in the primary function of the gene - for enzymes, what reaction is catalyzed, and what is the substrate specificity? For transporters, what is the substrate? For structural proteins or adapters, what is the broader structural role? For signaling molecules, what is the role in the pathway.

We are interested in where in or outside the cell the gene product carries out its function.

We are also interested in the signaling or biochemical pathways in which the gene functions. We are less interested in broad pleiotropic effects, except where these elucidate the precise role.

Include evidence where possible. We are interested in both experimental evidence as well as inference from structure, evolution, or bioinformatic analysis. Precise studies should be prioritized over high-throughput, where available.

Plan
- Verified target identity: hydA (DVU_1769) encodes the periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase large subunit (HydA) in Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough; UniProt P07598 matches this description (completed).
- Collected and synthesized evidence on localization, catalysis, cofactors/domains, interaction partners and electron-transfer pathways, operon context, mutant phenotypes, kinetics/structure, and role in sulfate reduction.
- Added 2023–2024 contextual updates on hydrogen cycling in sulfate-reducing systems.

Comprehensive Research Report: hydA (DVU_1769; UniProt P07598) in Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough

Executive summary and definitions
- Identity: hydA (DVU_1769) encodes the large catalytic subunit of a dimeric periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase (HydAB) in D. vulgaris Hildenborough. HydA harbors the H-cluster active site and multiple [4Fe–4S] clusters, whereas HydB is the small partner subunit of the periplasmic enzyme (HydAB) (barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71).
- Core reaction: reversible interconversion of molecular hydrogen and protons/electrons, 2 H+ + 2 e− ⇌ H2. In vivo, the periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase primarily functions in H2 oxidation during sulfate respiration, with the direction depending on electron pressure and environmental context (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59, pollock1992molecularbiologyof pages 48-53).

Subcellular localization
- Periplasmic enzyme: Classical biochemical fractionation and spheroplast complementation established that key periplasmic hydrogenases in Desulfovibrio act in the periplasm with cytochrome c3, consistent with N‑terminal signal peptides driving export; HydAB in D. vulgaris Hildenborough is a periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase (pollock1992molecularbiologyof pages 48-53, barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188).

Reaction catalyzed and directionality; native electron partners
- Reaction: 2 H+ + 2 e− ⇌ H2. Periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase can catalyze both H2 uptake and H2 evolution in vitro, but in sulfate-respiring conditions acts mainly as an H2-uptake enzyme that feeds electrons into the periplasmic c-type cytochrome network (e.g., TpI cytochrome c3), which then delivers electrons to membrane redox complexes for sulfate reduction (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59).
- Kinetic directionality: High specific activities are measurable with artificial electron carriers (e.g., methyl viologen), with both uptake and evolution activities reported for D. vulgaris [FeFe]-hydrogenase; however, physiological electron acceptors are periplasmic cytochromes rather than MV (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71).

Cofactors, domains, and active site chemistry
- H-cluster: HydA contains the [FeFe]-hydrogenase H-cluster composed of a diiron center ligated to an atypical [4Fe–4S] subcluster. Two additional ferredoxin-like [4Fe–4S] clusters in HydA support intramolecular electron transfer to/from the H‑cluster (barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188).
- Oxygen/ligand sensitivity: [FeFe]-hydrogenases are reversibly inhibited by CO and irreversibly damaged by O2 and NO; D. vulgaris Hyd forms an O2-protected inactive state (Hox(inact)/Hox(air)), with a model in which sulfide (H2S) binds the distal iron of the H-cluster to protect it, enabling reactivation upon reduction (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71).

Interaction partners and electron-transfer pathways to the membrane
- Periplasmic partners: Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) is the principal periplasmic electron carrier interacting with periplasmic hydrogenases, including the [FeFe]-hydrogenase; periplasmic hydrogenase + TpI-c3 restores lactate oxidation and sulfate reduction in D. vulgaris spheroplast systems (pollock1992molecularbiologyof pages 48-53, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59).
- Membrane conduits: Electrons from periplasmic carriers are shuttled to cytoplasmic sulfate-reduction enzymes via multiheme transmembrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc) and the quinone-interfacing Qrc complex, forming the periplasm-to-cytoplasm electron transfer path for energy conservation during sulfate reduction (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59).

Genetic context and operon organization
- Dimeric enzyme genes: Periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenases in Desulfovibrio are typically encoded by hydAB, with hydA specifying the catalytic large subunit harboring Fe–S clusters and the H-cluster, and hydB encoding the small partner. This genomic arrangement is widespread in Desulfovibrio and includes D. vulgaris Hildenborough (barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188). Specific operon neighbors/regulators for DVU_1769 were not resolved in the collected evidence.

Mutant phenotypes related to H2 cycling and lactate metabolism
- Hydrogenase- and c3-dependent lactate oxidation: Removal of periplasmic hydrogenases and TpI-c3 abolishes lactate-dependent sulfate reduction in D. vulgaris Hildenborough; complementation with periplasmic hydrogenases plus TpI-c3 partially restores activity, substantiating the hydrogen-cycling model for coupling lactate oxidation to sulfate reduction (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59).
- Cytochrome c3 (cycA) mutants: D. vulgaris Hildenborough cycA mutants cannot grow by H2 oxidation and show impaired sulfate reduction from pyruvate, shifting toward fermentation, highlighting the requirement of the periplasmic electron conduit for certain substrates (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62).

Kinetic and structural data specific to D. vulgaris [FeFe]-hydrogenase
- Activity and affinity: Reported values for D. vulgaris Hyd include high H2-uptake activity and a Km for H2 of roughly ~100 μM, consistent with operation at relatively elevated H2 partial pressures compared to high-affinity [NiFe] uptake hydrogenases (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71, barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188).
- Inhibitor sensitivity: CO reversibly inhibits, O2 and NO irreversibly inactivate most [FeFe]-hydrogenases; D. vulgaris Hyd can form a recoverable O2‑protected state, likely via sulfide ligation at the distal Fe (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71).

Role in sulfate reduction and energy conservation
- Hydrogen cycling framework: In D. vulgaris Hildenborough, lactate oxidation yields reducing equivalents that can be partitioned to H2 via cytoplasmic/membrane hydrogenases; H2 diffuses to the periplasm, where HydAB (HydA/HydB) and other periplasmic hydrogenases oxidize H2, delivering electrons to TpI-c3 and then across the membrane (via Hmc/Tmc/Qrc) to the cytoplasmic sulfate-reduction pathway (APS reductase, dissimilatory sulfite reductase), thereby contributing to proton motive force and energy conservation (pollock1992molecularbiologyof pages 48-53, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62).
- Substrate dependence and flexibility: Genetic and systems analyses indicate hydrogen cycling is more critical for pyruvate oxidation than for lactate oxidation, and that alternative electron-transfer routes can support growth depending on conditions, reflecting metabolic flexibility in SRB (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62).

Recent developments and latest research (2023–2024) contextualizing hydA
- Community-level H2 flux control: In a 4-member synthetic community including D. vulgaris, sulfate addition shifted electron fluxes by enhancing sulfate reduction and intensifying competition for H2 between D. vulgaris and a hydrogenotrophic methanogen, reducing methane output; this underscores SRB as key H2 sinks in sulfate-replete environments and situational H2 producers in sulfate limitation—contexts where HydAB function as an H2-oxidizing periplasmic enzyme is central (Wang et al., 2023, mBio; URL: https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.03189-22, published Apr 2023) (wang2023crossfeedingscompetitionand pages 1-2).
- Essentiality is environment dependent: A 2023 network/text-mining study in SRB highlights that hydrogenase genes tend to be in the pangenome “shell” rather than the persistent core, indicating conditional essentiality dependent on H2 availability and growth conditions; this aligns with observations that the HydAB pathway is critical under specific electron-donor/acceptor regimes (Saxena et al., 2023, Frontiers in Microbiology; URL: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1086021, published Apr 2023) (saxena2023integrationoftext pages 13-15).
- Mechanistic and classification context: Contemporary syntheses emphasize complementary roles of [FeFe] and [NiFe]/[NiFeSe] hydrogenases—[FeFe] with higher activities but lower O2 tolerance and higher H2 Km (∼100 μM for D. vulgaris Hyd), versus [NiFe] uptake enzymes with high H2 affinity—explaining partitioning of H2 oxidation duties under varying H2 levels and redox stresses in SRB (2022 synthesis; URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96703-1_4, published Jan 2022) (barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71).

Current applications and real-world implementations
- Biogeochemical and engineered consortia: SRB participation in anaerobic communities modulates methane yields from complex substrates by contesting H2 with methanogens—a lever for engineered bioprocesses (e.g., waste-to-energy, anaerobic digestion) and for interpreting in situ geochemical H2 sinks; community experiments and modeling quantify these flux reallocations under sulfate amendment (Wang et al., 2023, mBio; URL: https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.03189-22) (wang2023crossfeedingscompetitionand pages 1-2).
- Conceptual frameworks for energy conservation: Unified models integrating hydrogen cycling and direct electron transfer routes (via menaquinone and membrane complexes) guide metabolic engineering or control strategies in SRB-rich systems, with HydAB functioning as a key periplasmic H2-oxidation module when H2 is available (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59).

Expert opinions and authoritative syntheses
- Classic and modern views: Foundational analyses articulated hydrogen cycling in Desulfovibrio and demonstrated periplasmic hydrogenase–cytochrome c3 coupling via spheroplast experiments (Pollock, 1992; URL: https://doi.org/10.11575/prism/15124) (pollock1992molecularbiologyof pages 48-53). Updated syntheses emphasize the diversity and localization of Desulfovibrio hydrogenases and the mechanistic underpinnings of [FeFe] catalysis and inhibition relevant to SRB physiology (Barton & Fauque, 2022; URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96703-1_4) (barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188), with additional summaries of physiological partitioning among hydrogenase classes and protective inactivation states (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71).

Relevant quantitative data and statistics
- Enzyme properties: D. vulgaris periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase exhibits a Km for H2 ≈ 100 μM and very high turnover in H2 uptake assays; it is reversibly inhibited by CO and forms an O2-protected inactive state thought to involve sulfide ligation to the H‑cluster (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71, barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188).
- System-level flux control: Sulfate addition to a defined synthetic community shifted electron fluxes away from methanogenesis toward sulfate reduction and increased H2 competition with D. vulgaris as a dominant H2 sink, as measured by integrated metaproteomics/metabolite profiling and stoichiometric modeling (Wang et al., 2023; URL: https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.03189-22) (wang2023crossfeedingscompetitionand pages 1-2).

Ambiguity and nomenclature note
- hydA is a widely used symbol for [FeFe]-hydrogenase catalytic subunits across bacteria and eukaryotes; here, hydA refers specifically to DVU_1769 in D. vulgaris Hildenborough, the periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase large subunit corresponding to UniProt P07598. All evidence and interpretations above are constrained to this organism/protein context (barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71).

Knowledge gaps and future directions
- Operon/regulatory context for DVU_1769 in D. vulgaris Hildenborough, the full set of native physiological electron partners and complex formation dynamics with TpI‑c3 and membrane conduits (Qrc/Tmc/Hmc), and condition-specific essentiality remain priority areas for targeted genetic/biochemical work, building on community-level and systems observations (wang2023crossfeedingscompetitionand pages 1-2, saxena2023integrationoftext pages 13-15, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62).

References with URLs and publication dates (cited above)
- Wang D. et al. Cross-Feedings, Competition, and Positive and Negative Synergies in a Four-Species Synthetic Community for Anaerobic Degradation of Cellulose to Methane. mBio. Published Apr 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.03189-22 (wang2023crossfeedingscompetitionand pages 1-2)
- Saxena P. et al. Integration of text mining and biological network analysis: Identification of essential genes in sulfate-reducing bacteria. Frontiers in Microbiology. Published Apr 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1086021 (saxena2023integrationoftext pages 13-15)
- Barton L.L., Fauque G.D. Electron Transport Proteins and Cytochromes. In: Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria and Archaea. Published Jan 2022. URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96703-1_4 (barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188)
- Pollock W.B.R. Molecular biology of c-type cytochromes from Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough. Thesis/Monograph. Published Jan 1992. URL: https://doi.org/10.11575/prism/15124 (pollock1992molecularbiologyof pages 48-53)
- ISM Biosciences (compiled excerpts summarizing Desulfovibrio hydrogenases, 2022; includes mechanistic/kinetic notes and models). Publication date 2022; URL not specified in excerpt (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 131-133, biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59).

Citations in text correspond to context IDs: ().

References

  1. (barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188): Larry L. Barton and Guy D. Fauque. Electron transport proteins and cytochromes. Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria and Archaea, pages 173-244, Jan 2022. URL: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96703-1_4, doi:10.1007/978-3-030-96703-1_4. This article has 1 citations.

  2. (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71): ISM BiosCiences. Natalie payne. Unknown journal, 2022.

  3. (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59): ISM BiosCiences. Natalie payne. Unknown journal, 2022.

  4. (pollock1992molecularbiologyof pages 48-53): W. Brent R. Pollock. Molecular biology of c-type cytochromes from the sulfate-reducing bacterium desulfovibrio vulgaris hildenborough. Other, Jan 1992. URL: https://doi.org/10.11575/prism/15124, doi:10.11575/prism/15124. This article has 3 citations.

  5. (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62): ISM BiosCiences. Natalie payne. Unknown journal, 2022.

  6. (wang2023crossfeedingscompetitionand pages 1-2): Dongyu Wang, Kristopher A. Hunt, Pieter Candry, Xuanyu Tao, Neil Q. Wofford, Jizhong Zhou, Michael J. McInerney, David A. Stahl, Ralph S. Tanner, Aifen Zhou, Mari Winkler, and Chongle Pan. Cross-feedings, competition, and positive and negative synergies in a four-species synthetic community for anaerobic degradation of cellulose to methane. mBio, Apr 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.03189-22, doi:10.1128/mbio.03189-22. This article has 18 citations and is from a domain leading peer-reviewed journal.

  7. (saxena2023integrationoftext pages 13-15): Priya Saxena, Shailabh Rauniyar, Payal Thakur, Ram Nageena Singh, Alain Bomgni, Mathew O. Alaba, Abhilash Kumar Tripathi, Etienne Z. Gnimpieba, Carol Lushbough, and Rajesh Kumar Sani. Integration of text mining and biological network analysis: identification of essential genes in sulfate-reducing bacteria. Frontiers in Microbiology, Apr 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1086021, doi:10.3389/fmicb.2023.1086021. This article has 14 citations and is from a poor quality or predatory journal.

  8. (biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 131-133): ISM BiosCiences. Natalie payne. Unknown journal, 2022.

Citations

  1. biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 68-71
  2. barton2022electrontransportproteins pages 185-188
  3. biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 54-59
  4. biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 59-62
  5. wang2023crossfeedingscompetitionand pages 1-2
  6. saxena2023integrationoftext pages 13-15
  7. pollock1992molecularbiologyof pages 48-53
  8. biosciences2022nataliepayne pages 131-133
  9. Fe
  10. FeFe
  11. 4Fe–4S
  12. NiFe
  13. NiFeSe
  14. https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.03189-22,
  15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1086021,
  16. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96703-1_4,
  17. https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.03189-22
  18. https://doi.org/10.11575/prism/15124
  19. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96703-1_4
  20. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1086021
  21. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96703-1_4,
  22. https://doi.org/10.11575/prism/15124,

📄 View Raw YAML

id: P07598
gene_symbol: hydA
product_type: PROTEIN
status: DRAFT
taxon:
  id: NCBITaxon:882
  label: Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris (Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough)
description: >-
  hydA (DVU_1769) encodes the large catalytic subunit of a periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase (HydAB)
  in Nitratidesulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough. The enzyme catalyzes the reversible reaction
  2 H+ + 2 e- <-> H2 (EC 1.12.7.2), functioning primarily in H2 oxidation during dissimilatory
  sulfate reduction. The HydA subunit contains the catalytic H-cluster (a diiron center linked to
  a [4Fe-4S] subcluster) and two additional [4Fe-4S] ferredoxin-type clusters that mediate electron
  transfer. The physiological electron acceptor is Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3), which shuttles
  electrons to membrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc, Qrc) for ultimate delivery to cytoplasmic sulfate
  reductases. The enzyme has high turnover with a Km for H2 of approximately 100 uM, is reversibly
  inhibited by CO, and can form an O2-protected inactive state likely involving sulfide ligation
  at the H-cluster. HydA forms a heterodimer with the small subunit HydB for full periplasmic
  [FeFe]-hydrogenase activity.
existing_annotations:
- term:
    id: GO:0005506
    label: iron ion binding
  evidence_type: IEA
  original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000002
  review:
    summary: >-
      HydA contains multiple iron centers including three [4Fe-4S] clusters and a binuclear iron
      center at the H-cluster active site. X-ray crystallography at 1.6 A resolution (PMID:10368269)
      confirmed binding of iron ions through both the [4Fe-4S] clusters and the diiron active site.
      This annotation is accurate but less informative than the more specific 4Fe-4S cluster binding term.
    action: ACCEPT
    reason: >-
      The annotation is technically correct as confirmed by structural studies (PMID:10368269).
      HydA binds iron both in [4Fe-4S] clusters and in the binuclear H-cluster active site.
      However, this is a parent term of more specific annotations already present.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: PMID:10368269
        supporting_text: "The so-called H cluster of the enzyme is composed of a typical [4Fe-4S] cubane bridged to a binuclear active site Fe center"
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
        supporting_text: "HydA contains the [FeFe]-hydrogenase H-cluster composed of a diiron center ligated to an atypical [4Fe-4S] subcluster. Two additional ferredoxin-like [4Fe-4S] clusters in HydA support intramolecular electron transfer"

- term:
    id: GO:0008901
    label: ferredoxin hydrogenase activity
  evidence_type: IEA
  original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000120
  review:
    summary: >-
      GO:0008901 describes catalysis of the reaction "2 reduced ferredoxin + 2 H+ = 2 oxidized
      ferredoxin + H2". While HydA does catalyze H2/proton interconversion, the physiological
      electron partner is NOT ferredoxin but rather Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3). Literature
      consistently identifies cytochrome c3 as the native electron carrier for periplasmic
      [FeFe]-hydrogenase in D. vulgaris.
    action: MODIFY
    reason: >-
      The reaction catalyzed is correct in principle (H2 interconversion), but the specified
      electron partner (ferredoxin) is incorrect for this periplasmic enzyme. The physiological
      electron carrier is cytochrome c3, not ferredoxin. GO:0047806 (cytochrome-c3 hydrogenase
      activity) describes "2 H2 + ferricytochrome c3 = 4 H+ + ferrocytochrome c3" which matches
      the physiological function of HydAB.
    proposed_replacement_terms:
      - id: GO:0047806
        label: cytochrome-c3 hydrogenase activity
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
        supporting_text: "Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) is the principal periplasmic electron carrier interacting with periplasmic hydrogenases, including the [FeFe]-hydrogenase"
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
        supporting_text: "Cytochrome c3 is likely to be the physiological electron carrier for the enzyme."

- term:
    id: GO:0016491
    label: oxidoreductase activity
  evidence_type: IEA
  original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
  review:
    summary: >-
      GO:0016491 is a very high-level term for oxidoreductase activity. HydA is indeed an
      oxidoreductase (EC 1.12.7.2), catalyzing electron transfer between H2 and cytochrome c3.
      However, this term is too general and more specific hydrogenase activity terms should be used.
    action: ACCEPT
    reason: >-
      While technically correct, this is a high-level parent term. The annotation derives from
      UniProtKB keyword mapping and accurately captures the oxidoreductase nature of the enzyme.
      More specific terms (GO:0047806 cytochrome-c3 hydrogenase activity) should also be present
      to provide specificity.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
        supporting_text: "EC=1.12.7.2"

- term:
    id: GO:0042597
    label: periplasmic space
  evidence_type: IEA
  original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000044
  review:
    summary: >-
      HydA is unambiguously localized to the periplasmic space. This is supported by biochemical
      fractionation studies, the presence of an N-terminal signal peptide, and the functional
      requirement for interaction with periplasmic cytochrome c3.
    action: ACCEPT
    reason: >-
      Periplasmic localization is well-established from multiple lines of evidence including
      classical biochemical fractionation and spheroplast complementation experiments. UniProt
      annotation and deep research confirm periplasmic localization.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
        supporting_text: "SUBCELLULAR LOCATION: Periplasm."
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
        supporting_text: "HydAB in D. vulgaris Hildenborough is a periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase"

- term:
    id: GO:0046872
    label: metal ion binding
  evidence_type: IEA
  original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
  review:
    summary: >-
      GO:0046872 is a very general term for metal ion binding. HydA binds iron in multiple
      contexts (Fe-S clusters, binuclear iron center). This annotation is correct but
      uninformative given more specific terms are available.
    action: ACCEPT
    reason: >-
      Technically correct as HydA binds iron ions extensively. This is a parent term of
      GO:0005506 (iron ion binding) which is also annotated. The annotation captures the
      general metal-binding property but more specific terms provide the mechanistic detail.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: PMID:10368269
        supporting_text: "The so-called H cluster of the enzyme is composed of a typical [4Fe-4S] cubane bridged to a binuclear active site Fe center"

- term:
    id: GO:0051536
    label: iron-sulfur cluster binding
  evidence_type: IEA
  original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000120
  review:
    summary: >-
      HydA binds multiple iron-sulfur clusters: three [4Fe-4S] clusters (two ferredoxin-type
      and one as part of the H-cluster). This is well-established from X-ray crystallography
      and Mossbauer spectroscopy.
    action: ACCEPT
    reason: >-
      Accurate annotation supported by high-resolution structural data. The enzyme contains
      three [4Fe-4S] clusters that are essential for intramolecular electron transfer.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
        supporting_text: "Binds 3 [4Fe-4S] clusters per subunit."
      - reference_id: PMID:11456963
        supporting_text: "It contains two ferredoxin type [4Fe-4S] clusters, termed the F clusters, and a catalytic H cluster"

- term:
    id: GO:0051539
    label: 4 iron, 4 sulfur cluster binding
  evidence_type: IEA
  original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
  review:
    summary: >-
      HydA specifically binds three [4Fe-4S] clusters: two ferredoxin-type clusters (at domains
      26-57 and 59-86) and one [4Fe-4S] subcluster as part of the H-cluster active site. X-ray
      crystallography at 1.6 A resolution confirmed the cluster coordination.
    action: ACCEPT
    reason: >-
      Highly accurate and specific annotation. The [4Fe-4S] clusters are central to the
      electron transfer mechanism of the enzyme. Crystallographic evidence (PMID:10368269)
      and UniProt domain annotations confirm the presence of multiple 4Fe-4S ferredoxin-type
      domains.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
        supporting_text: "Binds 3 [4Fe-4S] clusters per subunit."
      - reference_id: PMID:11456963
        supporting_text: "It contains two ferredoxin type [4Fe-4S] clusters, termed the F clusters, and a catalytic H cluster"

# New annotations not in existing GOA set
- term:
    id: GO:0047806
    label: cytochrome-c3 hydrogenase activity
  evidence_type: ISS
  original_reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
  review:
    summary: >-
      This is the most specific and accurate molecular function term for HydA. The enzyme
      catalyzes H2 oxidation with cytochrome c3 as the physiological electron acceptor,
      matching the reaction described by GO:0047806: "2 H2 + ferricytochrome c3 = 4 H+ +
      ferrocytochrome c3".
    action: NEW
    reason: >-
      This annotation is missing from the current GOA set but represents the core molecular
      function of the enzyme. UniProt explicitly states cytochrome c3 as the physiological
      electron carrier, and deep research confirms Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) as the
      principal electron partner.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
        supporting_text: "Cytochrome c3 is likely to be the physiological electron carrier for the enzyme."
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
        supporting_text: "Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) is the principal periplasmic electron carrier interacting with periplasmic hydrogenases, including the [FeFe]-hydrogenase"

- term:
    id: GO:0019420
    label: dissimilatory sulfate reduction
  evidence_type: ISS
  original_reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
  review:
    summary: >-
      HydA functions as an entry point for electrons into the dissimilatory sulfate reduction
      pathway. By oxidizing H2 in the periplasm and transferring electrons via cytochrome c3
      to membrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc, Qrc), HydA supports the reduction of sulfate to H2S
      as the terminal electron acceptor.
    action: NEW
    reason: >-
      No biological process annotation currently exists for HydA. The enzyme's role in
      dissimilatory sulfate reduction is well-documented and represents its primary
      physiological function in sulfate-respiring conditions.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-uniprot.txt
        supporting_text: "May be involved in hydrogen uptake for the reduction of sulfate to hydrogen sulfide in an electron transport chain."
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
        supporting_text: "H2 diffuses to the periplasm, where HydAB (HydA/HydB) and other periplasmic hydrogenases oxidize H2, delivering electrons to TpI-c3 and then across the membrane (via Hmc/Tmc/Qrc) to the cytoplasmic sulfate-reduction pathway"

- term:
    id: GO:1902421
    label: hydrogen metabolic process
  evidence_type: ISS
  original_reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
  review:
    summary: >-
      HydA catalyzes the reversible interconversion of H2 and protons, directly participating
      in hydrogen metabolism. While the enzyme can catalyze both H2 uptake and evolution,
      the primary in vivo function is H2 oxidation during sulfate respiration.
    action: NEW
    reason: >-
      This biological process term captures the core metabolic role of the enzyme in H2
      cycling. The hydrogen cycling model in Desulfovibrio is well-established.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
        supporting_text: "Core reaction: reversible interconversion of molecular hydrogen and protons/electrons, 2 H+ + 2 e"

- term:
    id: GO:0019645
    label: anaerobic electron transport chain
  evidence_type: ISS
  original_reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
  review:
    summary: >-
      HydA is a component of the anaerobic electron transport chain in sulfate-reducing
      bacteria. It oxidizes H2 and transfers electrons to cytochrome c3, which then
      delivers electrons to membrane complexes for ultimate transfer to cytoplasmic
      sulfate reductases.
    action: NEW
    reason: >-
      HydA functions within an anaerobic electron transport chain where sulfate (not oxygen)
      serves as the terminal electron acceptor. The enzyme is a key entry point for electrons
      from H2 into this chain.
    supported_by:
      - reference_id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
        supporting_text: "Electrons from periplasmic carriers are shuttled to cytoplasmic sulfate-reduction enzymes via multiheme transmembrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc) and the quinone-interfacing Qrc complex"

core_functions:
  - molecular_function:
      id: GO:0047806
      label: cytochrome-c3 hydrogenase activity
    locations:
      - id: GO:0042597
        label: periplasmic space
    directly_involved_in:
      - id: GO:0019420
        label: dissimilatory sulfate reduction
      - id: GO:1902421
        label: hydrogen metabolic process
    description: >-
      HydA catalyzes the reversible reaction 2 H2 + ferricytochrome c3 = 4 H+ + ferrocytochrome c3,
      using Type I cytochrome c3 (TpI-c3) as the physiological electron acceptor. The enzyme
      contains an H-cluster active site with a diiron center and [4Fe-4S] subcluster, plus
      two additional [4Fe-4S] clusters for intramolecular electron transfer. Has Km for H2
      of approximately 100 uM with high turnover. Functions in the periplasmic space to
      provide electrons from H2 oxidation for dissimilatory sulfate reduction.

proposed_new_terms: []

suggested_questions:
  - question: What is the precise stoichiometry of HydA:HydB in the active holoenzyme complex?
  - question: Are there conditions under which the periplasmic [FeFe]-hydrogenase operates in the H2-evolution direction in vivo?
  - question: What are the specific regulatory mechanisms controlling hydA expression in response to H2 availability and sulfate levels?

suggested_experiments:
  - description: >-
      Deletion mutant studies to quantify the contribution of HydAB specifically (versus
      other hydrogenases) to sulfate reduction with different electron donors.
    hypothesis: HydAB is the primary periplasmic hydrogenase responsible for H2 oxidation during sulfate respiration.
    experiment_type: Genetic deletion/complementation
  - description: >-
      In vivo crosslinking studies to map the interaction interface between HydA and
      cytochrome c3.
    hypothesis: HydA interacts directly with cytochrome c3 via a specific protein-protein interface.
    experiment_type: Crosslinking mass spectrometry
  - description: >-
      Time-resolved spectroscopy to characterize electron transfer kinetics between HydA
      and membrane complexes (Hmc, Tmc, Qrc).
    hypothesis: Electron transfer from HydA to membrane complexes occurs via cytochrome c3 as an obligate intermediate.
    experiment_type: Time-resolved spectroscopy

references:
- id: PMID:3888621
  title: "Nucleotide sequence of the gene encoding the hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio vulgaris (Hildenborough)."
  findings: []
- id: PMID:15077118
  title: "The genome sequence of the anaerobic, sulfate-reducing bacterium Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough."
  findings: []
- id: PMID:3322275
  title: "Identification of three classes of hydrogenase in the genus, Desulfovibrio."
  findings: []
- id: PMID:10368269
  title: "Desulfovibrio desulfuricans iron hydrogenase: the structure shows unusual coordination to an active site Fe binuclear center."
  findings:
    - statement: X-ray crystal structure at 1.6 A resolution revealing [4Fe-4S] clusters and binuclear iron center
      supporting_text: "The so-called H cluster of the enzyme is composed of a typical [4Fe-4S] cubane bridged to a binuclear active site Fe center containing putative CO and CN ligands"
- id: PMID:11456963
  title: "Mössbauer characterization of the iron-sulfur clusters in Desulfovibrio vulgaris hydrogenase."
  findings:
    - statement: Spectroscopic characterization of Fe-S clusters confirming three [4Fe-4S] clusters
      supporting_text: "It contains two ferredoxin type [4Fe-4S] clusters, termed the F clusters, and a catalytic H cluster"
- id: PMID:11456758
  title: "Crystallographic and FTIR spectroscopic evidence of changes in Fe coordination upon reduction of the active site of the Fe-only hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio desulfuricans."
  findings: []
- id: GO_REF:0000002
  title: Gene Ontology annotation through association of InterPro records with GO terms
  findings: []
- id: GO_REF:0000043
  title: Gene Ontology annotation based on UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot keyword mapping
  findings: []
- id: GO_REF:0000044
  title: Gene Ontology annotation based on UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot Subcellular Location vocabulary mapping
  findings: []
- id: GO_REF:0000120
  title: Combined Automated Annotation using Multiple IEA Methods
  findings: []
- id: file:DESVH/P07598/P07598-deep-research-falcon.md
  title: "Deep research synthesis on hydA (P07598) in D. vulgaris Hildenborough"
  findings:
    - statement: Comprehensive literature synthesis on HydA function
    - statement: Confirms cytochrome c3 as physiological electron partner
    - statement: Documents role in hydrogen cycling during sulfate respiration