What is "alkb"

AlkB protein is a protein induced during an adaptive response and is involved in the direct reversal of alkylation damage. AlkB specifically removes alkylation damage to single stranded (SS) DNA caused by S2 type of chemical agents. It efficiently removes methyl groups from 1-methyl adenines, 3-methyl cytosines in SS DNA. AlkB belongs to the Fe (II)/2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase superfamily and oxidatively demethylates the DNA substrate. Demethylation by AlkB is accompanied with release of CO, succinate and formaldehyde.