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Abstract
A startling array of added anions have been observed to function as replacement catalytic
nucleophiles in mutant glycosidases, including formate, azide, fluoride and other
halides. Likewise, the mechanism of acid-base catalysis is somewhat plastic. The carboxylic
acids can be substituted by a sulfenic acid or by ascorbate, and the effective acid
strength enhanced by the introduction of strong hydrogen bonds. These studies provide
an interesting bridge between enzymes and models thereof.