The expression and characterization of a nitrile reductase from Escherichia coil K-12 (EcoNR), a newly discovered enzyme class, is described. This enzyme has a potential application for an alternative nitrile reduction pathway. The enzyme activity towards its natural substrate, preQ(0), was demonstrated and optimal working conditions were found to be at 37 degrees C and at pH 7 with Tris buffer. (c) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.