Abstract: The present invention relates to the identification of novel metallo-proteases (MP) in Gram-positive microorganisms. The present invention provides the nucleic acid and amino acid sequences for Bacillus (MP). The present invention also provides host cells having mutation or deletion of part or all of the gene encoding MP. The present invention also provides host cells further comprising nucleic acid encoding desired heterologous proteins such as enzymes. The present invention also provides cleaning compositions comprising an MP of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention concerns polypeptides that possess an enantioselective amidase activity. It also concerns the genetic material required for the expression of these polypeptides as well as a microbiological procedure for their preparation. Finally, this invention concerns the utilization of these polypeptides and of transformed microorganisms for the enantioselective synthesis of acids from racemic amides, and in particular propionic acids, especially (S)-2-aryl-propionamide.