101
|
Chooi YH, Muria-Gonzalez MJ, Solomon PS. A genome-wide survey of the secondary metabolite biosynthesis genes in the wheat pathogen Parastagonospora nodorum.. Mycology 2014; 5:192-206. [PMID: 25379341 PMCID: PMC4205913 DOI: 10.1080/21501203.2014.928386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The model pathogen Parastagonospora nodorum is a necrotroph and the causal agent of the wheat disease Septoria nodorum blotch (SNB). The sequenced P. nodorum genome has revealed that the fungus harbours a large number of secondary metabolite genes. Secondary metabolites are known to play important roles in the virulence of plant pathogens, but limited knowledge is available about the SM repertoire of this wheat pathogen. Here, we review the secondary metabolites that have been isolated from P. nodorum and related species of the same genus and provide an in-depth genome-wide overview of the secondary metabolite gene clusters encoded in the P. nodorum genome. The secondary metabolite gene survey reveals that P. nodorum is capable of producing a diverse range of small molecules and exciting prospects exist for discovery of novel virulence factors and bioactive molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yit-Heng Chooi
- Plant Sciences Division, Research School of Biology, The Australian National University , Canberra , 0200 , Australia
| | - Mariano Jordi Muria-Gonzalez
- Plant Sciences Division, Research School of Biology, The Australian National University , Canberra , 0200 , Australia
| | - Peter S Solomon
- Plant Sciences Division, Research School of Biology, The Australian National University , Canberra , 0200 , Australia
| |
Collapse
|
102
|
Fluorescence sensors for selective detection of Hg²⁺ ion using a water-soluble poly(vinyl alcohol) bearing rhodamine B moieties. J Fluoresc 2014; 24:1207-13. [PMID: 24817439 DOI: 10.1007/s10895-014-1402-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The novel water-soluble poly(vinyl alcohol) with pendant rhodamine B moiety as colorimetric and fluorescene chemosensor for Hg(2+) ions was prepared by grafting poly(vinyl alcohol) using rhodamine B hydrazide and hexamethylenediisocyanate as fluorescent dye and coupling agent, respectively. Because of their good water-solubility, the polymers binding rhodamine B can be used as chemosensors in aqueous media. With the addition of Hg(2+) ions into the aqueous solution, visual color changes and fluorescence enhancements were detected. In addition, we also noticed that other metal ions such as Ag(+), Cd(2+), Co(2+), Cu(2+), K(+), Mg(2+), Ba(2+), Fe(2+), Ni(2+), Pb(2+), Cr(3+), Fe(3+) and Zn(2+) cannot induce obvious changes to the fluorescence spectra of the polymer chemosensors. The combination of water solubility and positive fluorescence response as well as color change are hence particularly promising for the practical utility of the sensors.
Collapse
|
103
|
Wang M, Beissner M, Zhao H. Aryl-aldehyde formation in fungal polyketides: discovery and characterization of a distinct biosynthetic mechanism. CHEMISTRY & BIOLOGY 2014; 21:257-63. [PMID: 24412543 PMCID: PMC3943900 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2013.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Revised: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aryl-aldehydes are a common feature in fungal polyketides, which are considered to be exclusively generated by the R domain of nonreducing polyketide synthases (NR-PKSs). However, by cloning and heterologous expression of both cryptic NR-PKS and nonribosomal peptide synthase (NRPS)-like genes from Aspergillus terreus in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we identified a distinct mechanism for aryl-aldehyde formation in which a NRPS-like protein activates and reduces an aryl-acid produced by the accompanying NR-PKS to an aryl-aldehyde. Bioinformatics study indicates that such a mechanism may be widely used throughout the fungi kingdom.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Mirko Beissner
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Huimin Zhao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
104
|
Pockrandt D, Sack C, Kosiol T, Li SM. A promiscuous prenyltransferase from Aspergillus oryzae catalyses C-prenylations of hydroxynaphthalenes in the presence of different prenyl donors. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2014; 98:4987-94. [PMID: 24430210 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-014-5509-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Revised: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Prenyltransferases of the dimethylallyltryptophan synthase (DMATS) superfamily are involved in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and show broad substrate specificity towards their aromatic substrates with a high regioselectivity for the prenylation reactions. Most members of this superfamily accepted as prenyl donor exclusively dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP). One enzyme, AnaPT from Neosartorya fischeri, was reported recently to use both DMAPP and geranyl diphosphate (GPP) as prenyl donors. In this study, we demonstrate the acceptance of DMAPP, GPP and farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) by a new member of this superfamily, BAE61387 from Aspergillus oryzae DSM1147, for C-prenylations of hydroxynaphthalenes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Pockrandt
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Deutschhausstrasse 17A, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
105
|
Paranjape SR, Chiang YM, Sanchez JF, Entwistle R, Wang CCC, Oakley BR, Gamblin TC. Inhibition of Tau aggregation by three Aspergillus nidulans secondary metabolites: 2,ω-dihydroxyemodin, asperthecin, and asperbenzaldehyde. PLANTA MEDICA 2014; 80:77-85. [PMID: 24414310 PMCID: PMC6442474 DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1360180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The aggregation of the microtubule-associated protein tau is a significant event in many neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease. The inhibition or reversal of tau aggregation is therefore a potential therapeutic strategy for these diseases. Fungal natural products have proven to be a rich source of useful compounds having wide varieties of biological activity. We have screened Aspergillus nidulans secondary metabolites containing aromatic ring structures for their ability to inhibit tau aggregation in vitro using an arachidonic acid polymerization protocol and the previously identified aggregation inhibitor emodin as a positive control. While several compounds showed some activity, 2,ω-dihydroxyemodin, asperthecin, and asperbenzaldehyde were potent aggregation inhibitors as determined by both a filter trap assay and electron microscopy. In this study, these three compounds were stronger inhibitors than emodin, which has been shown in a prior study to inhibit the heparin induction of tau aggregation with an IC50 of 1-5 µM. Additionally, 2,ω-dihydroxyemodin, asperthecin, and asperbenzaldehyde reduced, but did not block, tau stabilization of microtubules. 2,ω-Dihydroxyemodin and asperthecin have similar structures to previously identified tau aggregation inhibitors, while asperbenzaldehyde represents a new class of compounds with tau aggregation inhibitor activity. Asperbenzaldehyde can be readily modified into compounds with strong lipoxygenase inhibitor activity, suggesting that compounds derived from asperbenzaldehyde could have dual activity. Together, our data demonstrates the potential of 2,ω-dihydroxyemodin, asperthecin, and asperbenzaldehyde as lead compounds for further development as therapeutics to inhibit tau aggregation in Alzheimer's disease and neurodegenerative tauopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Smita R. Paranjape
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Yi-Ming Chiang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Graduate Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Chia Nan University School of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 71710, Taiwan
| | - James F. Sanchez
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Ruth Entwistle
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Clay C. C. Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Berl R. Oakley
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - T. Chris Gamblin
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| |
Collapse
|
106
|
Nett M. Genome mining: concept and strategies for natural product discovery. PROGRESS IN THE CHEMISTRY OF ORGANIC NATURAL PRODUCTS 2014; 99:199-245. [PMID: 25296440 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-04900-7_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
107
|
Schmidt-Dannert C. Biosynthesis of terpenoid natural products in fungi. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2014; 148:19-61. [PMID: 25414054 DOI: 10.1007/10_2014_283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Tens of thousands of terpenoid natural products have been isolated from plants and microbial sources. Higher fungi (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota) are known to produce an array of well-known terpenoid natural products, including mycotoxins, antibiotics, antitumor compounds, and phytohormones. Except for a few well-studied fungal biosynthetic pathways, the majority of genes and biosynthetic pathways responsible for the biosynthesis of a small number of these secondary metabolites have only been discovered and characterized in the past 5-10 years. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on fungal terpenoid biosynthesis from biochemical, genetic, and genomic viewpoints. Enzymes involved in synthesizing, transferring, and cyclizing the prenyl chains that form the hydrocarbon scaffolds of fungal terpenoid natural products are systematically discussed. Genomic information and functional evidence suggest differences between the terpenome of the two major fungal phyla--the Ascomycota and Basidiomycota--which will be illustrated for each group of terpenoid natural products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Schmidt-Dannert
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minneapolis, MN, 55108, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
108
|
Tarcz S, Xie X, Li SM. Substrate and catalytic promiscuity of secondary metabolite enzymes: O-prenylation of hydroxyxanthones with different prenyl donors by a bisindolyl benzoquinone C- and N-prenyltransferase. RSC Adv 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c4ra00337c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Supplied with unnatural substrates like hydroxyxanthones, the C- and N-prenyltransferase AstPT performs O-prenylation using DMAPP, GPP and also FPP as prenyl donor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Tarcz
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie
- Philipps-Universität Marburg
- 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Xiulan Xie
- Fachbereich Chemie
- Philipps-Universität Marburg
- 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Shu-Ming Li
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie
- Philipps-Universität Marburg
- 35037 Marburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
109
|
Recent advances in genome mining of secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters and the development of heterologous expression systems in Aspergillus nidulans. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2013; 41:433-42. [PMID: 24342965 DOI: 10.1007/s10295-013-1386-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 11/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are prolific producers of secondary metabolites (SMs) that show a variety of biological activities. Recent advances in genome sequencing have shown that fungal genomes harbor far more SM gene clusters than are expressed under conventional laboratory conditions. Activation of these "silent" gene clusters is a major challenge, and many approaches have been taken to attempt to activate them and, thus, unlock the vast treasure chest of fungal SMs. This review will cover recent advances in genome mining of SMs in Aspergillus nidulans. We will also discuss current updates in gene annotation of A. nidulans and recent developments in A. nidulans as a molecular genetic system, both of which are essential for rapid and efficient experimental verification of SM gene clusters on a genome-wide scale. Finally, we will describe advances in the use of A. nidulans as a heterologous expression system to aid in the analysis of SM gene clusters from other fungal species that do not have an established molecular genetic system.
Collapse
|
110
|
Rönsberg D, Debbab A, Mándi A, Vasylyeva V, Böhler P, Stork B, Engelke L, Hamacher A, Sawadogo R, Diederich M, Wray V, Lin W, Kassack MU, Janiak C, Scheu S, Wesselborg S, Kurtán T, Aly AH, Proksch P. Pro-Apoptotic and Immunostimulatory Tetrahydroxanthone Dimers from the Endophytic Fungus Phomopsis longicolla. J Org Chem 2013; 78:12409-25. [DOI: 10.1021/jo402066b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David Rönsberg
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Abdessamad Debbab
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Attila Mándi
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, University of Debrecen, POB 20, 4010 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Vera Vasylyeva
- Institut
für Anorganische Chemie und Strukturchemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Philip Böhler
- Institut
für Molekulare Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Björn Stork
- Institut
für Molekulare Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Laura Engelke
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexandra Hamacher
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Richard Sawadogo
- Laboratory
of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Cancer (LBMCC), Hôpital Kirchberg, 9 rue Edward Steichen, 2540 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Marc Diederich
- Laboratory
of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Cancer (LBMCC), Hôpital Kirchberg, 9 rue Edward Steichen, 2540 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Victor Wray
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstraße 7, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - WenHan Lin
- National
Research Laboratories of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Health Science Center, 100083 Beijing, China
| | - Matthias U. Kassack
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christoph Janiak
- Institut
für Anorganische Chemie und Strukturchemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefanie Scheu
- Institut
für Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Krankenhaushygiene, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wesselborg
- Institut
für Molekulare Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tibor Kurtán
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, University of Debrecen, POB 20, 4010 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Amal H. Aly
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Peter Proksch
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Universitätsstrasse 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
111
|
Xu X, Liu L, Zhang F, Wang W, Li J, Guo L, Che Y, Liu G. Identification of the First Diphenyl Ether Gene Cluster for Pestheic Acid Biosynthesis in Plant EndophytePestalotiopsis fici. Chembiochem 2013; 15:284-92. [DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201300626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
|
112
|
Strategies for mining fungal natural products. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2013; 41:301-13. [PMID: 24146366 DOI: 10.1007/s10295-013-1366-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are well known for their ability to produce a multitude of natural products. On the one hand their potential to provide beneficial antibiotics and immunosuppressants has been maximized by the pharmaceutical industry to service the market with cost-efficient drugs. On the other hand identification of trace amounts of known mycotoxins in food and feed samples is of major importance to ensure consumer health and safety. Although several fungal natural products, their biosynthesis and regulation are known today, recent genome sequences of hundreds of fungal species illustrate that the secondary metabolite potential of fungi has been substantially underestimated. Since expression of genes and subsequent production of the encoded metabolites are frequently cryptic or silent under standard laboratory conditions, strategies for activating these hidden new compounds are essential. This review will cover the latest advances in fungal genome mining undertaken to unlock novel products.
Collapse
|
113
|
Yaegashi J, Praseuth MB, Tyan SW, Sanchez JF, Entwistle R, Chiang YM, Oakley BR, Wang CCC. Molecular genetic characterization of the biosynthesis cluster of a prenylated isoindolinone alkaloid aspernidine A in Aspergillus nidulans. Org Lett 2013; 15:2862-5. [PMID: 23706169 DOI: 10.1021/ol401187b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Aspernidine A is a prenylated isoindolinone alkaloid isolated from the model fungus Aspergillus nidulans. A genome-wide kinase knockout library of A. nidulans was examined, and it was found that a mitogen-activated protein kinase gene, mpkA, deletion strain produces aspernidine A. Targeted gene deletions were performed in the kinase deletion background to identify the gene cluster for aspernidine A biosynthesis. Intermediates were isolated from mutant strains which provided information about the aspernidine A biosynthesis pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junko Yaegashi
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
114
|
Comprehensive annotation of secondary metabolite biosynthetic genes and gene clusters of Aspergillus nidulans, A. fumigatus, A. niger and A. oryzae. BMC Microbiol 2013; 13:91. [PMID: 23617571 PMCID: PMC3689640 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-13-91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Secondary metabolite production, a hallmark of filamentous fungi, is an expanding area of research for the Aspergilli. These compounds are potent chemicals, ranging from deadly toxins to therapeutic antibiotics to potential anti-cancer drugs. The genome sequences for multiple Aspergilli have been determined, and provide a wealth of predictive information about secondary metabolite production. Sequence analysis and gene overexpression strategies have enabled the discovery of novel secondary metabolites and the genes involved in their biosynthesis. The Aspergillus Genome Database (AspGD) provides a central repository for gene annotation and protein information for Aspergillus species. These annotations include Gene Ontology (GO) terms, phenotype data, gene names and descriptions and they are crucial for interpreting both small- and large-scale data and for aiding in the design of new experiments that further Aspergillus research. Results We have manually curated Biological Process GO annotations for all genes in AspGD with recorded functions in secondary metabolite production, adding new GO terms that specifically describe each secondary metabolite. We then leveraged these new annotations to predict roles in secondary metabolism for genes lacking experimental characterization. As a starting point for manually annotating Aspergillus secondary metabolite gene clusters, we used antiSMASH (antibiotics and Secondary Metabolite Analysis SHell) and SMURF (Secondary Metabolite Unknown Regions Finder) algorithms to identify potential clusters in A. nidulans, A. fumigatus, A. niger and A. oryzae, which we subsequently refined through manual curation. Conclusions This set of 266 manually curated secondary metabolite gene clusters will facilitate the investigation of novel Aspergillus secondary metabolites.
Collapse
|
115
|
Bradshaw RE, Slot JC, Moore GG, Chettri P, de Wit PJGM, Ehrlich KC, Ganley ARD, Olson MA, Rokas A, Carbone I, Cox MP. Fragmentation of an aflatoxin-like gene cluster in a forest pathogen. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2013; 198:525-535. [PMID: 23448391 DOI: 10.1111/nph.12161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Accepted: 12/25/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Plant pathogens use a complex arsenal of weapons, such as toxic secondary metabolites, to invade and destroy their hosts. Knowledge of how secondary metabolite pathways evolved is central to understanding the evolution of host specificity. The secondary metabolite dothistromin is structurally similar to aflatoxins and is produced by the fungal pine pathogen Dothistroma septosporum. Our study focused on dothistromin genes, which are widely dispersed across one chromosome, to determine whether this unusual distributed arrangement evolved from an ancestral cluster. We combined comparative genomics and population genetics approaches to elucidate the origins of the dispersed arrangement of dothistromin genes over a broad evolutionary time-scale at the phylum, class and species levels. Orthologs of dothistromin genes were found in two major classes of fungi. Their organization is consistent with clustering of core pathway genes in a common ancestor, but with intermediate cluster fragmentation states in the Dothideomycetes fungi. Recombination hotspots in a D. septosporum population matched sites of gene acquisition and cluster fragmentation at higher evolutionary levels. The results suggest that fragmentation of a larger ancestral cluster gave rise to the arrangement seen in D. septosporum. We propose that cluster fragmentation may facilitate metabolic retooling and subsequent host adaptation of plant pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosie E Bradshaw
- Bio-Protection Research Centre, Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Jason C Slot
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA
| | - Geromy G Moore
- Southern Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, New Orleans, LA, 70124, USA
| | - Pranav Chettri
- Bio-Protection Research Centre, Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Pierre J G M de Wit
- Laboratory of Phytopathology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Kenneth C Ehrlich
- Southern Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, New Orleans, LA, 70124, USA
| | - Austen R D Ganley
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
| | - Malin A Olson
- Bio-Protection Research Centre, Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Antonis Rokas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA
| | - Ignazio Carbone
- Department of Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7244, USA
| | - Murray P Cox
- Bio-Protection Research Centre, Institute of Fundamental Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
116
|
Wasil Z, Pahirulzaman KAK, Butts C, Simpson TJ, Lazarus CM, Cox RJ. One pathway, many compounds: heterologous expression of a fungal biosynthetic pathway reveals its intrinsic potential for diversity. Chem Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.1039/c3sc51785c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
117
|
Accurate prediction of secondary metabolite gene clusters in filamentous fungi. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 110:E99-107. [PMID: 23248299 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1205532110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Biosynthetic pathways of secondary metabolites from fungi are currently subject to an intense effort to elucidate the genetic basis for these compounds due to their large potential within pharmaceutics and synthetic biochemistry. The preferred method is methodical gene deletions to identify supporting enzymes for key synthases one cluster at a time. In this study, we design and apply a DNA expression array for Aspergillus nidulans in combination with legacy data to form a comprehensive gene expression compendium. We apply a guilt-by-association-based analysis to predict the extent of the biosynthetic clusters for the 58 synthases active in our set of experimental conditions. A comparison with legacy data shows the method to be accurate in 13 of 16 known clusters and nearly accurate for the remaining 3 clusters. Furthermore, we apply a data clustering approach, which identifies cross-chemistry between physically separate gene clusters (superclusters), and validate this both with legacy data and experimentally by prediction and verification of a supercluster consisting of the synthase AN1242 and the prenyltransferase AN11080, as well as identification of the product compound nidulanin A. We have used A. nidulans for our method development and validation due to the wealth of available biochemical data, but the method can be applied to any fungus with a sequenced and assembled genome, thus supporting further secondary metabolite pathway elucidation in the fungal kingdom.
Collapse
|
118
|
Abstract
Fungi produce a multitude of low-molecular-mass compounds known as secondary metabolites, which have roles in a range of cellular processes such as transcription, development and intercellular communication. In addition, many of these compounds now have important applications, for instance, as antibiotics or immunosuppressants. Genome mining efforts indicate that the capability of fungi to produce secondary metabolites has been substantially underestimated because many of the fungal secondary metabolite biosynthesis gene clusters are silent under standard cultivation conditions. In this Review, I describe our current understanding of the regulatory elements that modulate the transcription of genes involved in secondary metabolism. I also discuss how an improved knowledge of these regulatory elements will ultimately lead to a better understanding of the physiological and ecological functions of these important compounds and will pave the way for a novel avenue to drug discovery through targeted activation of silent gene clusters.
Collapse
|
119
|
Pockrandt D, Ludwig L, Fan A, König GM, Li SM. New Insights into the Biosynthesis of Prenylated Xanthones: Xptb fromAspergillus nidulansCatalyses an O-Prenylation of Xanthones. Chembiochem 2012; 13:2764-71. [DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201200545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
120
|
Guo CJ, Knox BP, Chiang YM, Lo HC, Sanchez JF, Lee KH, Oakley BR, Bruno KS, Wang CCC. Molecular genetic characterization of a cluster in A. terreus for biosynthesis of the meroterpenoid terretonin. Org Lett 2012; 14:5684-7. [PMID: 23116177 DOI: 10.1021/ol302682z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Meroterpenoids are natural products produced from polyketide and terpenoid precursors. A gene targeting system for A. terreus NIH2624 was developed, and a gene cluster for terretonin biosynthesis was characterized. The intermediates and shunt products were isolated from the mutant strains, and a pathway for terretonin biosynthesis is proposed. Analysis of two meroterpenoid pathways corresponding to terretonin in A. terreus and austinol in A. nidulans reveals that they are closely related evolutionarily.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Jun Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
121
|
Mundt K, Wollinsky B, Ruan HL, Zhu T, Li SM. Identification of the verruculogen prenyltransferase FtmPT3 by a combination of chemical, bioinformatic and biochemical approaches. Chembiochem 2012; 13:2583-92. [PMID: 23109474 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201200523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies showed that verruculogen is the end product of a biosynthetic gene cluster for fumitremorgin-type alkaloids in Aspergillus fumigatus and Neosartorya fischeri. In this study, we isolated fumitremorgin A from N. fischeri. This led to the identification of the responsible gene, ftmPT3, for O-prenylation of an aliphatic hydroxy group in verruculogen. This gene was found at a different location in the genome of N. fischeri than the identified cluster. The coding sequence of ftmPT3 was amplified by fusion PCR and overexpressed in Escherichia coli. The enzyme product of the soluble His(8)-FtmPT3 with verruculogen and dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP) was identified unequivocally as fumitremorgin A by NMR and MS analyses. K(M) values of FtmPT3 were determined for verruculogen and DMAPP at 5.7 and 61.5 μM, respectively. Average turnover number (k(cat)) was calculated from kinetic parameters of verruculogen and DMAPP to be 0.069 s(-1). FtmPT3 also accepted biosynthetic precursors of fumitremorgin A, for example, fumitremorgin B and 12,13-dihydroxyfumitremorgin C, as substrates and catalyses their prenylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Mundt
- Philipps-Universität Marburg, Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Deutschhausstrasse 17A, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
122
|
Soukup AA, Chiang YM, Bok JW, Reyes-Dominguez Y, Oakley BR, Wang CCC, Strauss J, Keller NP. Overexpression of the Aspergillus nidulans histone 4 acetyltransferase EsaA increases activation of secondary metabolite production. Mol Microbiol 2012; 86:314-30. [PMID: 22882998 PMCID: PMC3514908 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2958.2012.08195.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of secondary metabolite (SM) gene clusters in Aspergillus nidulans has been shown to occur through cluster-specific transcription factors or through global regulators of chromatin structure such as histone methyltransferases, histone deacetylases, or the putative methyltransferase LaeA. A multicopy suppressor screen for genes capable of returning SM production to the SM deficient ΔlaeA mutant resulted in identification of the essential histone acetyltransferase EsaA, able to complement an esa1 deletion in Saccharomyces cereviseae. Here we report that EsaA plays a novel role in SM cluster activation through histone 4 lysine 12 (H4K12) acetylation in four examined SM gene clusters (sterigmatocystin, penicillin, terrequinone and orsellinic acid), in contrast to no increase in H4K12 acetylation of the housekeeping tubA promoter. This augmented SM cluster acetylation requires LaeA for full effect and correlates with both increased transcript levels and metabolite production relative to wild type. H4K12 levels may thus represent a unique indicator of relative production potential, notably of SMs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra A. Soukup
- Department of Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1550 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, USA 53706
| | - Yi-Ming Chiang
- Graduate Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan, ROC 71710,Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA 90033
| | - Jin Woo Bok
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1550 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, USA 53706
| | - Yazmid Reyes-Dominguez
- Fungal Genetics and Genomics Unit, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, and Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, University and Research Center Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, Tulln/Donau, Austria A-3430
| | - Berl R. Oakley
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS, USA 66045
| | - Clay C. C. Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA 90033,Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA 90033
| | - Joseph Strauss
- Fungal Genetics and Genomics Unit, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, and Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, University and Research Center Campus Tulln, Konrad Lorenz Strasse 24, Tulln/Donau, Austria A-3430
| | - Nancy P. Keller
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1550 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, USA 53706,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1550 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, USA 53706,Corresponding author: 3476 Microbial Sciences, 1550 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, USA 53706 Phone: (608) 262-9795 Fax: (608)262-8418
| |
Collapse
|
123
|
Liebhold M, Xie X, Li SM. Expansion of enzymatic Friedel-Crafts alkylation on indoles: acceptance of unnatural β-unsaturated allyl diphospates by dimethylallyl-tryptophan synthases. Org Lett 2012; 14:4882-5. [PMID: 22958207 DOI: 10.1021/ol302207r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Prenyltransferases of the dimethylallyl-tryptophan synthase (DMATS) superfamily catalyze Friedel-Crafts alkylation with high flexibility for aromatic substrates, but the high specificity for dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP) prohibits their application as biocatalysts. We demonstrate here that at least one methyl group in DMAPP can be deleted or shifted to the δ-position. For acceptance by some DMATS enzymes, however, a double bond must be situated at the β-position. Furthermore, the alkylation position of an analogue can differ from that of DMAPP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mike Liebhold
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Deutschhausstrasse 17a, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
124
|
Schätzle MA, Husain SM, Ferlaino S, Müller M. Tautomers of Anthrahydroquinones: Enzymatic Reduction and Implications for Chrysophanol, Monodictyphenone, and Related Xanthone Biosyntheses. J Am Chem Soc 2012; 134:14742-5. [DOI: 10.1021/ja307151x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Schätzle
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische Wissenschaften, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr.
25, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Syed Masood Husain
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische Wissenschaften, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr.
25, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sascha Ferlaino
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische Wissenschaften, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr.
25, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Müller
- Institut
für Pharmazeutische Wissenschaften, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr.
25, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
125
|
Sarkar A, Funk AN, Scherlach K, Horn F, Schroeckh V, Chankhamjon P, Westermann M, Roth M, Brakhage AA, Hertweck C, Horn U. Differential expression of silent polyketide biosynthesis gene clusters in chemostat cultures of Aspergillus nidulans. J Biotechnol 2012; 160:64-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2012.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2011] [Revised: 01/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
|
126
|
Simpson TJ. Genetic and biosynthetic studies of the fungal prenylated xanthone shamixanthone and related metabolites in Aspergillus spp. revisited. Chembiochem 2012; 13:1680-8. [PMID: 22730213 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201200014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2012] [Revised: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Biosynthetic genes for the prenylated xanthone shamixanthone have been identified in the Aspergillus nidulans genome; based on assignment of putative functions from sequence analyses and selected gene deletions, a pathway was proposed leading from the anthraquinone emodin via the benzophenone carboxylic acid monodictyphenone and the xanthone emericellin to shamixanthone. Several aspects of this proposed pathway are inconsistent with previously identified biosynthetic intermediates: the anthraquinone chrysophanol and the benzophenone aldehyde derivatives arugosins F and A/B, isotopic labelling studies and chemical precedents. A new pathway is presented that provides a full rationale for the results of the gene deletion studies and reconciles them with previous biosynthetic results, and is in accord with established chemical and biosynthetic mechanisms. The importance of interpreting genetic information in terms of established biosynthetic events is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Simpson
- University of Bristol, School of Chemistry, Cantock's Close, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
127
|
Chooi YH, Wang P, Fang J, Li Y, Wu K, Wang P, Tang Y. Discovery and characterization of a group of fungal polycyclic polyketide prenyltransferases. J Am Chem Soc 2012; 134:9428-37. [PMID: 22590971 PMCID: PMC3904230 DOI: 10.1021/ja3028636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The prenyltransferase (PTase) gene vrtC was proposed to be involved in viridicatumtoxin (1) biosynthesis in Penicillium aethiopicum. Targeted gene deletion and reconstitution of recombinant VrtC activity in vitro established that VrtC is a geranyl transferase that catalyzes a regiospecific Friedel-Crafts alkylation of the naphthacenedione carboxamide intermediate 2 at carbon 6 with geranyl diphosphate. VrtC can function in the absence of divalent ions and can utilize similar naphthacenedione substrates, such as the acetyl-primed TAN-1612 (4). Genome mining using the VrtC protein sequence leads to the identification of a homologous group of PTase genes in the genomes of human and animal-associated fungi. Three enzymes encoded by this new subgroup of PTase genes from Neosartorya fischeri, Microsporum canis, and Trichophyton tonsurans were shown to be able to catalyze transfer of dimethylallyl to several tetracyclic naphthacenedione substrates in vitro. In total, seven C(5)- or C(10)-prenylated naphthacenedione compounds were generated. The regioselectivity of these new polycyclic PTases (pcPTases) was confirmed by characterization of product 9 obtained from biotransformation of 4 in Escherichia coli expressing the N. fischeri pcPTase gene. The discovery of this new subgroup of PTases extends our enzymatic tools for modifying polycyclic compounds and enables genome mining of new prenylated polyketides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yit-Heng Chooi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Jinxu Fang
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
| | - Yanran Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Katherine Wu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Pin Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
| | - Yi Tang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095
| |
Collapse
|
128
|
Ahuja M, Chiang YM, Chang SL, Praseuth MB, Entwistle R, Sanchez JF, Lo HC, Yeh HH, Oakley BR, Wang CCC. Illuminating the diversity of aromatic polyketide synthases in Aspergillus nidulans. J Am Chem Soc 2012; 134:8212-21. [PMID: 22510154 DOI: 10.1021/ja3016395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Genome sequencing has revealed that fungi have the ability to synthesize many more natural products (NPs) than are currently known, but methods for obtaining suitable expression of NPs have been inadequate. We have developed a successful strategy that bypasses normal regulatory mechanisms. By efficient gene targeting, we have replaced, en masse, the promoters of nonreducing polyketide synthase (NR-PKS) genes, key genes in NP biosynthetic pathways, and other genes necessary for NR-PKS product formation or release. This has allowed us to determine the products of eight NR-PKSs of Aspergillus nidulans, including seven novel compounds, as well as the NR-PKS genes required for the synthesis of the toxins alternariol (8) and cichorine (19).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manmeet Ahuja
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, Kansas 66045, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
129
|
Lo HC, Entwistle R, Guo CJ, Ahuja M, Szewczyk E, Hung JH, Chiang YM, Oakley BR, Wang CCC. Two separate gene clusters encode the biosynthetic pathway for the meroterpenoids austinol and dehydroaustinol in Aspergillus nidulans. J Am Chem Soc 2012; 134:4709-20. [PMID: 22329759 DOI: 10.1021/ja209809t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Meroterpenoids are a class of fungal natural products that are produced from polyketide and terpenoid precursors. An understanding of meroterpenoid biosynthesis at the genetic level should facilitate engineering of second-generation molecules and increasing production of first-generation compounds. The filamentous fungus Aspergillus nidulans has previously been found to produce two meroterpenoids, austinol and dehydroaustinol. Using targeted deletions that we created, we have determined that, surprisingly, two separate gene clusters are required for meroterpenoid biosynthesis. One is a cluster of four genes including a polyketide synthase gene, ausA. The second is a cluster of 10 additional genes including a prenyltransferase gene, ausN, located on a separate chromosome. Chemical analysis of mutant extracts enabled us to isolate 3,5-dimethylorsellinic acid and 10 additional meroterpenoids that are either intermediates or shunt products from the biosynthetic pathway. Six of them were identified as novel meroterpenoids in this study. Our data, in aggregate, allow us to propose a complete biosynthetic pathway for the A. nidulans meroterpenoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Chun Lo
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90089, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
130
|
Klejnstrup ML, Frandsen RJN, Holm DK, Nielsen MT, Mortensen UH, Larsen TO, Nielsen JB. Genetics of Polyketide Metabolism in Aspergillus nidulans. Metabolites 2012; 2:100-33. [PMID: 24957370 PMCID: PMC3901194 DOI: 10.3390/metabo2010100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2011] [Revised: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Secondary metabolites are small molecules that show large structural diversity and a broad range of bioactivities. Some metabolites are attractive as drugs or pigments while others act as harmful mycotoxins. Filamentous fungi have the capacity to produce a wide array of secondary metabolites including polyketides. The majority of genes required for production of these metabolites are mostly organized in gene clusters, which often are silent or barely expressed under laboratory conditions, making discovery and analysis difficult. Fortunately, the genome sequences of several filamentous fungi are publicly available, greatly facilitating the establishment of links between genes and metabolites. This review covers the attempts being made to trigger the activation of polyketide metabolism in the fungal model organism Aspergillus nidulans. Moreover, it will provide an overview of the pathways where ten polyketide synthase genes have been coupled to polyketide products. Therefore, the proposed biosynthesis of the following metabolites will be presented; naphthopyrone, sterigmatocystin, aspyridones, emericellamides, asperthecin, asperfuranone, monodictyphenone/emodin, orsellinic acid, and the austinols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie L Klejnstrup
- Department of Systems Biology, Center for Microbial Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads B221, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Rasmus J N Frandsen
- Department of Systems Biology, Center for Microbial Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads B223, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Dorte K Holm
- Department of Systems Biology, Center for Microbial Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads B223, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Morten T Nielsen
- Department of Systems Biology, Center for Microbial Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads B223, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Uffe H Mortensen
- Department of Systems Biology, Center for Microbial Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads B223, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Thomas O Larsen
- Department of Systems Biology, Center for Microbial Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads B221, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Jakob B Nielsen
- Department of Systems Biology, Center for Microbial Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads B223, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
131
|
Sanchez JF, Somoza AD, Keller NP, Wang CCC. Advances in Aspergillus secondary metabolite research in the post-genomic era. Nat Prod Rep 2012; 29:351-71. [PMID: 22228366 DOI: 10.1039/c2np00084a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This review studies the impact of whole genome sequencing on Aspergillus secondary metabolite research. There has been a proliferation of many new, intriguing discoveries since sequencing data became widely available. What is more, the genomes disclosed the surprising finding that there are many more secondary metabolite biosynthetic pathways than laboratory research had suggested. Activating these pathways has been met with some success, but many more dormant genes remain to be awakened.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James F Sanchez
- University of Southern California-Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
132
|
Butts CP, Jones CR, Song Z, Simpson TJ. Accurate NOE-distance determination enables the stereochemical assignment of a flexible molecule – arugosin C. Chem Commun (Camb) 2012; 48:9023-5. [DOI: 10.1039/c2cc32144k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
133
|
|
134
|
Sanchez JF, Entwistle R, Corcoran D, Oakley BR, Wang CCC. Identification and molecular genetic analysis of the cichorine gene cluster in Aspergillus nidulans.. MEDCHEMCOMM 2012; 3. [PMID: 24244835 DOI: 10.1039/c2md20055d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We recently demonstrated that the phytotoxin cichorine is produced by Aspergillus nidulans. Through a set of targeted deletions, we have found a cluster of seven genes that are required for its biosynthesis. Two of the deletions yielded molecules that give information about the biosynthesis of this metabolite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James F Sanchez
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
135
|
Oakley CE, Edgerton-Morgan H, Oakley BR. Tools for manipulation of secondary metabolism pathways: rapid promoter replacements and gene deletions in Aspergillus nidulans. Methods Mol Biol 2012; 944:143-61. [PMID: 23065614 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-62703-122-6_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Targeted gene deletions and promoter replacements are proving to be a valuable tool for awakening and analyzing silent secondary metabolism gene clusters in Aspergillus nidulans and, as molecular genetic methods for manipulating the genomes of other fungi are developed, they will likely be as valuable in those organisms. Here we describe procedures for constructing DNA fragments by PCR that can be used to replace genes or promoters quickly and on a large scale. We also describe transformation procedures for A. nidulans that allow these fragments to be introduced into target strains efficiently such that many genes or promoters can be replaced in a single experiment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Elizabeth Oakley
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
136
|
Yu X, Li SM. Prenylation of Flavonoids by Using a Dimethylallyltryptophan Synthase, 7-DMATS, from Aspergillus fumigatus. Chembiochem 2011; 12:2280-3. [DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201100413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
137
|
Yakasai AA, Davison J, Wasil Z, Halo LM, Butts CP, Lazarus CM, Bailey AM, Simpson TJ, Cox RJ. Nongenetic Reprogramming of a Fungal Highly Reducing Polyketide Synthase. J Am Chem Soc 2011; 133:10990-8. [DOI: 10.1021/ja204200x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A. Yakasai
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K
| | - Jack Davison
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K
| | - Zahida Wasil
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K
| | - Laura M. Halo
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K
| | - Craig P. Butts
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K
| | - Colin M. Lazarus
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol BS8 1UG, U.K
| | - Andrew M. Bailey
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol BS8 1UG, U.K
| | - Thomas J. Simpson
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K
| | - Russell J. Cox
- School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, Bristol BS8 1TS, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
138
|
Nielsen ML, Nielsen JB, Rank C, Klejnstrup ML, Holm DK, Brogaard KH, Hansen BG, Frisvad JC, Larsen TO, Mortensen UH. A genome-wide polyketide synthase deletion library uncovers novel genetic links to polyketides and meroterpenoids in Aspergillus nidulans. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2011; 321:157-66. [PMID: 21658102 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2011.02327.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi possess an advanced secondary metabolism that is regulated and coordinated in a complex manner depending on environmental challenges. To understand this complexity, a holistic approach is necessary. We initiated such an analysis in the important model fungus Aspergillus nidulans by systematically deleting all 32 individual genes encoding polyketide synthases. Wild-type and all mutant strains were challenged on different complex media to provoke induction of the secondary metabolism. Screening of the mutant library revealed direct genetic links to two austinol meroterpenoids and expanded the current understanding of the biosynthetic pathways leading to arugosins and violaceols. We expect that the library will be an important resource towards a systemic understanding of polyketide production in A. nidulans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Nielsen
- Department of Systems Biology, Center for Microbial Biotechnology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|