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Song Y, Zhang Y, Wang X, Yu X, Liao Y, Zhang H, Li L, Wang Y, Liu B, Li W. Telomere-to-telomere reference genome for Panax ginseng highlights the evolution of saponin biosynthesis. HORTICULTURE RESEARCH 2024; 11:uhae107. [PMID: 38883331 PMCID: PMC11179851 DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhae107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a representative of Chinese traditional medicine, also used worldwide, while the triterpene saponin ginsenoside is the most important effective compound within it. Ginseng is an allotetraploid, with complex genetic background, making the study of its metabolic evolution challenging. In this study, we assembled a telomere-to-telomere ginseng reference genome, constructed of 3.45 Gb with 24 chromosomes and 77 266 protein-coding genes. Additionally, the reference genome was divided into two subgenomes, designated as subgenome A and B. Subgenome A contains a larger number of genes, whereas subgenome B has a general expression advantage, suggesting that ginseng subgenomes experienced asymmetric gene loss with biased gene expression. The two subgenomes separated approximately 6.07 million years ago, and subgenome B shows the closest relation to Panax vietnamensis var. fuscidiscus. Comparative genomics revealed an expansion of gene families associated with ginsenoside biosynthesis in both ginseng subgenomes. Furthermore, both tandem duplications and proximal duplications play crucial roles in ginsenoside biosynthesis. We also screened functional genes identified in previous research and found that some of these genes located in colinear regions between subgenomes have divergence functions, revealing an unbalanced evolution in both subgenomes and the saponin biosynthesis pathway in ginseng. Our work provides important resources for future genetic studies and breeding programs of ginseng, as well as the biosynthesis of ginsenosides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Song
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Agricultural Synthetic Biology, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Yating Zhang
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Agricultural Synthetic Biology, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Xu Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Tropical Crop Breeding, Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Xikai Yu
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Agricultural Synthetic Biology, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
| | - Yi Liao
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Institute of Special Animal and Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China
| | - Linfeng Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Coastal Ecosystems Research Station of Yangtze River Estuary, Institute of Biodiversity Science and Institute of Eco-Chongming, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Songhu Road 2005, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yingping Wang
- State-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Ginseng Breeding and Application, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Bao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epigenetics of the Ministry of Education (MOE), Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
| | - Wei Li
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Agricultural Synthetic Biology, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
- Kunpeng Institute of Modern Agriculture at Foshan, Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518124, China
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Surendran K, Pradeep S, Pillai PP. Comparative transcriptome and metabolite profiling reveal diverse pattern of CYP-TS gene expression during corosolic acid biosynthesis in Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2024; 43:122. [PMID: 38642121 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-024-03203-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGE Extensive leaf transcriptome profiling and differential gene expression analysis of field grown and elicited shoot cultures of L. speciosa suggest that differential synthesis of CRA is mediated primarily by CYP and TS genes, showing functional diversity. Lagerstroemia speciosa L. is a tree species with medicinal and horticultural attributes. The pentacyclic triterpene, Corosolic acid (CRA) obtained from this species is widely used for the management of diabetes mellitus in traditional medicine. The high mercantile value of the compound and limited availability of innate resources entail exploration of alternative sources for CRA production. Metabolic pathway engineering for enhanced bioproduction of plant secondary metabolites is an attractive proposition for which, candidate genes in the pathway need to be identified and characterized. Therefore, in the present investigation, we focused on the identification of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) and oxidosqualene cyclases (OSC) genes and their differential expression during biosynthesis of CRA. The pattern of differential expression of these genes in the shoot cultures of L. speciosa, elicited with different epigenetic modifiers (azacytidine (AzaC), sodium butyrate (NaBu) and anacardic acid (AA)), was studied in comparison with field grown plant. Further, in vitro cultures with varying (low to high) concentrations of CRA were systematically assessed for the expression of CYP-TS and associated genes involved in CRA biosynthesis by transcriptome sequencing. The sequenced samples were de novo assembled into 180,290 transcripts of which, 92,983 transcripts were further annotated by UniProt. The results are collectively given in co-occurrence heat maps to identify the differentially expressed genes. The combined transcript and metabolite profiles along with RT-qPCR analysis resulted in the identification of CYP-TS genes with high sequence variation. Further, instances of concordant/discordant relation between CRA biosynthesis and CYP-TS gene expression were observed, indicating functional diversity in genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karuna Surendran
- Department of Genomic Science, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, 671320, India
| | - Siya Pradeep
- Department of Genomic Science, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, 671320, India
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Mishra B, Bansal S, Tripathi S, Mishra S, Yadav RK, Sangwan NS. Differential regulation of key triterpene synthase gene under abiotic stress in Withania somnifera L. Dunal and its co-relation to sterols and withanolides. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2024; 208:108419. [PMID: 38377888 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), is one of the most reputed Indian medicinal plants, having immense pharmacological activities due to the occurrence of withanolides. The withanolides are biosynthesized through triterpenoid biosynthetic pathway with the involvement of WsCAS leading to cyclization of 2, 3 oxidosqualene, which is a key metabolite to further diversify to a myriad of phytochemicals. In contrast to the available reports on the studies of WsCAS in withanolide biosynthesis, its involvement in phytosterol biosynthesis needs investigation. Present work deals with the understanding of role of WsCAS triterpenoid synthase gene in the regulation of biosynthesis of phytosterols & withanolides. Docking studies of WsCAS protein revealed Conserved amino acids, DCATE motif, and QW motif which are involved in efficient substrate binding, structure stabilization, and catalytic activity. Overexpression/silencing of WsCAS leading to increment/decline of phytosterols confers its stringent regulation in phytosterols biosynthesis. Differential regulation of WsCAS on the metabolic flux towards phytosterols and withanolide biosynthesis was observed under abiotic stress conditions. The preferential channelization of 2, 3 oxidosqualene towards withanolides and/or phytosterols occurred under heat/salt stress and cold/water stress, respectively. Stigmasterol and β-sitosterol showed major contribution in high/low temperature and salt stress, and campesterol in water stress management. Overexpression of WsCAS in Arabidopsis thaliana led to the increment in phytosterols in general. Thus, the WsCAS plays important regulatory role in the biosynthetic pathway of phytosterols and withanolides under abiotic stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhawana Mishra
- CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Department of Metabolic and Structural Biology, Uttar Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) (An Institution of National Importance by an Act of Parliament), AcSIR Campus, CSIR-HRDC, Sector-19, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad, 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shilpi Bansal
- CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Department of Metabolic and Structural Biology, Uttar Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) (An Institution of National Importance by an Act of Parliament), AcSIR Campus, CSIR-HRDC, Sector-19, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad, 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sandhya Tripathi
- CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Department of Metabolic and Structural Biology, Uttar Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) (An Institution of National Importance by an Act of Parliament), AcSIR Campus, CSIR-HRDC, Sector-19, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad, 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Smrati Mishra
- CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Department of Metabolic and Structural Biology, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ritesh K Yadav
- CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Department of Metabolic and Structural Biology, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Neelam S Sangwan
- CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Department of Metabolic and Structural Biology, Uttar Pradesh, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) (An Institution of National Importance by an Act of Parliament), AcSIR Campus, CSIR-HRDC, Sector-19, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad, 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; School of Interdisciplinary and Applied Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana 123031, India.
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Wan L, Huang Q, Li C, Yu H, Tan G, Wei S, El-Sappah AH, Sooranna S, Zhang K, Pan L, Zhang Z, Lei M. Integrated metabolome and transcriptome analysis identifies candidate genes involved in triterpenoid saponin biosynthesis in leaves of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 14:1295186. [PMID: 38283979 PMCID: PMC10811118 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1295186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Centella asiatica (L.) Urban is a well-known medicinal plant which has multiple pharmacological properties. Notably, the leaves of C. asiatica contain large amounts of triterpenoid saponins. However, there have only been a few studies systematically elucidating the metabolic dynamics and transcriptional differences regarding triterpenoid saponin biosynthesis during the leaf development stages of C. asiatica. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of the metabolome and transcriptome to reveal the dynamic patterns of triterpenoid saponin accumulation and identified the key candidate genes associated with their biosynthesis in C. asiatica leaves. In this study, we found that the key precursors in the synthesis of terpenoids, including DMAPP, IPP and β-amyrin, as well as 22 triterpenes and eight triterpenoid saponins were considered as differentially accumulated metabolites. The concentrations of DMAPP, IPP and β-amyrin showed significant increases during the entire stage of leaf development. The levels of 12 triterpenes decreased only during the later stages of leaf development, but five triterpenoid saponins rapidly accumulated at the early stages, and later decreased to a constant level. Furthermore, 48 genes involved in the MVA, MEP and 2, 3-oxidosqualene biosynthetic pathways were selected following gene annotation. Then, 17 CYP450s and 26 UGTs, which are respectively responsible for backbone modifications, were used for phylogenetic-tree construction and time-specific expression analysis. From these data, by integrating metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses, we identified CaHDR1 and CaIDI2 as the candidate genes associated with DMAPP and IPP synthesis, respectively, and CaβAS1 as the one regulating β-amyrin synthesis. Two genes from the CYP716 family were confirmed as CaCYP716A83 and CaCYP716C11. We also selected two UGT73 families as candidate genes, associated with glycosylation of the terpenoid backbone at C-3 in C. asiatica. These findings will pave the way for further research on the molecular mechanisms associated with triterpenoid saponin biosynthesis in C. asiatica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyun Wan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for High-Quality Formation and Utilization of Dao-Di Herbs, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Qiulan Huang
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Engineering, Yibin University, Yibin, China
| | - Cui Li
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Haixia Yu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for High-Quality Formation and Utilization of Dao-Di Herbs, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Guiyu Tan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for High-Quality Formation and Utilization of Dao-Di Herbs, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Shugen Wei
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for High-Quality Formation and Utilization of Dao-Di Herbs, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Ahmed H. El-Sappah
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Engineering, Yibin University, Yibin, China
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Suren Sooranna
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kun Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for High-Quality Formation and Utilization of Dao-Di Herbs, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Limei Pan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for High-Quality Formation and Utilization of Dao-Di Herbs, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Zhanjiang Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for High-Quality Formation and Utilization of Dao-Di Herbs, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Ming Lei
- National Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Inheritance and Innovation, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
- National Engineering Research Center for the Development of Southwestern Endangered Medicinal Materials, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
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Lippolis A, Roland WSU, Bocova O, Pouvreau L, Trindade LM. The challenge of breeding for reduced off-flavor in faba bean ingredients. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1286803. [PMID: 37965015 PMCID: PMC10642941 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1286803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
The growing interest in plant protein sources, such as pulses, is driven by the necessity for sustainable food production and climate change mitigation strategies. Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is a promising protein crop for temperate climates, owing to its remarkable yield potential (up to 8 tonnes ha-1 in favourable growing conditions) and high protein content (~29% dry matter basis). Nevertheless, the adoption of faba bean protein in plant-based products that aim to resemble animal-derived counterparts is hindered by its distinctive taste and aroma, regarded as "off-flavors". In this review, we propose to introduce off-flavor as a trait in breeding programs by identifying molecules involved in sensory perception and defining key breeding targets. We discuss the role of lipid oxidation in producing volatile and non-volatile compounds responsible for the beany aroma and bitter taste, respectively. We further investigate the contribution of saponin, tannin, and other polyphenols to bitterness and astringency. To develop faba bean varieties with diminished off-flavors, we suggest targeting genes to reduce lipid oxidation, such as lipoxygenases (lox) and fatty acid desaturases (fad), and genes involved in phenylpropanoid and saponin biosynthesis, such as zero-tannin (zt), chalcone isomerase (chi), chalcone synthase (chs), β-amyrin (bas1). Additionally, we address potential challenges, including the need for high-throughput phenotyping and possible limitations that could arise during the genetic improvement process. The breeding approach can facilitate the use of faba bean protein in plant-based food such as meat and dairy analogues more extensively, fostering a transition toward more sustainable and climate-resilient diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Lippolis
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Wibke S. U. Roland
- Wageningen Food & Biobased Research, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Ornela Bocova
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Laurice Pouvreau
- Wageningen Food & Biobased Research, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Luisa M. Trindade
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
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Li Y, Wang J, Li L, Song W, Li M, Hua X, Wang Y, Yuan J, Xue Z. Natural products of pentacyclic triterpenoids: from discovery to heterologous biosynthesis. Nat Prod Rep 2023; 40:1303-1353. [PMID: 36454108 DOI: 10.1039/d2np00063f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Covering: up to 2022Pentacyclic triterpenoids are important natural bioactive substances that are widely present in plants and fungi. They have significant medicinal efficacy, play an important role in reducing blood glucose and protecting the liver, and have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, anti-fatigue, anti-viral, and anti-cancer activities. Pentacyclic triterpenoids are derived from the isoprenoid biosynthetic pathway, which generates common precursors of triterpenes and steroids, followed by cyclization with oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs) and decoration via cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP450s) and glycosyltransferases (GTs). Many biosynthetic pathways of triterpenoid saponins have been elucidated by studying their metabolic regulation network through the use of multiomics and identifying their functional genes. Unfortunately, natural resources of pentacyclic triterpenoids are limited due to their low content in plant tissues and the long growth cycle of plants. Based on the understanding of their biosynthetic pathway and transcriptional regulation, plant bioreactors and microbial cell factories are emerging as alternative means for the synthesis of desired triterpenoid saponins. The rapid development of synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and fermentation technology has broadened channels for the accumulation of pentacyclic triterpenoid saponins. In this review, we summarize the classification, distribution, structural characteristics, and bioactivity of pentacyclic triterpenoids. We further discuss the biosynthetic pathways of pentacyclic triterpenoids and involved transcriptional regulation. Moreover, the recent progress and characteristics of heterologous biosynthesis in plants and microbial cell factories are discussed comparatively. Finally, we propose potential strategies to improve the accumulation of triterpenoid saponins, thereby providing a guide for their future biomanufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlin Li
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute of Forestry and Pomology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Linyong Li
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Wenhui Song
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Min Li
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Xin Hua
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Yu Wang
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.
| | - Jifeng Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, 361102, Fujian, PR China.
| | - Zheyong Xue
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
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Ranner JL, Schalk S, Martyniak C, Parniske M, Gutjahr C, Stark TD, Dawid C. Primary and Secondary Metabolites in Lotus japonicus. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023. [PMID: 37466334 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c02709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Lotus japonicus is a leguminous model plant used to gain insight into plant physiology, stress response, and especially symbiotic plant-microbe interactions, such as root nodule symbiosis or arbuscular mycorrhiza. Responses to changing environmental conditions, stress, microbes, or insect pests are generally accompanied by changes in primary and secondary metabolism to account for physiological needs or to produce defensive or signaling compounds. Here we provide an overview of the primary and secondary metabolites identified in L. japonicus to date. Identification of the metabolites is mainly based on mass spectral tags (MSTs) obtained by gas chromatography linked with tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) or liquid chromatography-MS/MS (LC-MS/MS). These MSTs contain retention index and mass spectral information, which are compared to databases with MSTs of authentic standards. More than 600 metabolites are grouped into compound classes such as polyphenols, carbohydrates, organic acids and phosphates, lipids, amino acids, nitrogenous compounds, phytohormones, and additional defense compounds. Their physiological effects are briefly discussed, and the detection methods are explained. This review of the exisiting literature on L. japonicus metabolites provides a valuable basis for future metabolomics studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef L Ranner
- Chair of Food Chemistry and Molecular Sensory Science, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Str. 34, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Sabrina Schalk
- Chair of Food Chemistry and Molecular Sensory Science, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Str. 34, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Cindy Martyniak
- Chair of Food Chemistry and Molecular Sensory Science, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Str. 34, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Martin Parniske
- Faculty of Biology, Genetics, University of Munich (LMU), Großhaderner Straße 2-4, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Caroline Gutjahr
- Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Timo D Stark
- Chair of Food Chemistry and Molecular Sensory Science, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Str. 34, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Corinna Dawid
- Chair of Food Chemistry and Molecular Sensory Science, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Str. 34, 85354 Freising, Germany
- Professorship of Functional Phytometabolomics, TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Str. 34, 85354 Freising, Germany
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Afifah IQ, Wibowo I, Faizal A. A newly identified β-amyrin synthase gene hypothetically involved in oleanane-saponin biosynthesis from Talinum paniculatum (Jacq.) Gaertn. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17707. [PMID: 37449131 PMCID: PMC10336583 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Talinum paniculatum or Javanese ginseng in Indonesia is a plant widely used as a traditional medicine. The genus Talinum produces oleanane-type saponins, such as talinumoside I. The first aim of this study was to isolate the probable gene encoding β-amyrin synthase (bAS), a key enzyme involved in the cyclization of 2,3-oxidosqualene producing the backbone of the oleanane-type saponin β-amyrin and characterize the gene sequence and the predicted protein sequence using in silico approach. The second aim was to analyze the correlation between the TpbAS gene expression level and saponin production in various plant organs. Thus, TpbAS was isolated using degenerate primers and PCR 5'/3'-Rapid Amplification of cDNA Ends (RACE), then the gene sequence and the predicted protein were in silico analyzed using various programs. TpbAS expression level was analyzed using reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR), and saponin content was measured using a spectrophotometer. The results showed that the full-length TpbAS gene consists of 2298 base pairs encoding for a 765-amino acid protein. From in silico study, the (GA)n sequence was identified in the 5'-untranslated regions and predicted to be a candidate of the gene expression modulator. In addition, functional RNA motifs and sites analysis predicted the presence of exon splicing enhancers and silencers within the coding sequence and miRNA target sites candidate. Amino acid sequence analysis showed DCTAE, QW, and WCYCR motifs that were conserved in all classes of oxidosqualene cyclase enzymes. Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that TpbAS is closely related to other plant oxidosqualene cyclase groups. Analysis of TpbAS expression and saponin content indicated that saponin is mainly synthesized and accumulated in the leaves. Taken together, these findings will assist in increasing the saponin content through a metabolic engineering approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ika Qurrotul Afifah
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Indra Wibowo
- Physiology, Animal Development, and Biomedical Sciences Research Group, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung, 40132, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Faizal
- Plant Science and Biotechnology Research Group, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung, 40132, Indonesia
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9
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Wu Y, Gong FL, Li S. Leveraging yeast to characterize plant biosynthetic gene clusters. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 71:102314. [PMID: 36463029 PMCID: PMC10664738 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2022.102314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plant biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) contain multiple physically clustered non-homologous genes that encode enzymes catalyzing diverse reactions in one plant natural product biosynthetic pathway. A growing number of plant BGCs have emerged as an underlying resource for understanding plant specialized metabolism and evolution, but the characterization remains challenging. Recent studies have demonstrated that baker's yeast can serve as a versatile platform for the characterization of plant BGCs, from single-gene characterization to multiple genes and hitherto unknown putative BGC validation and elucidation. In this review, we will summarize the strategies and examples of the applications of yeast in plant BGC characterization and share our perspective on the development of a systematic pipeline to fully leverage yeast to advance the understanding of plant BGCs and plant natural product biomanufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinan Wu
- Robert F. Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Franklin L Gong
- Robert F. Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Sijin Li
- Robert F. Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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10
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Fan Z, Wang Y, Yang C, Zhou Z, Wang P, Yan X. Identification of a novel multifunctional oxidosqualene cyclase from Zea mays sheds light on the biosynthetic pathway of three pentacyclic triterpenoids. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2022; 7:1167-1172. [PMID: 36158585 PMCID: PMC9467860 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Zea mays (maize) is an important agricultural crop that produces a variety of valuable terpenoids, including several triterpenoids. However, no oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC) enzymes, which catalyze the first step in triterpenoid biosynthesis, have been identified in maize. Here, we identified a novel OSC (ZmOSC1) in maize using a combination of genomic mining and phylogenetic analyses. To functionally characterize the candidate OSC, we constructed a yeast strain that produced high levels of 2,3-oxidosqualene. When ZmOSC1 was expressed in this strain, three compounds were detected and identified as hop-17(21)-en-3-ol, hopenol B and simiarenol, respectively. For their biosynthesis, we proposed a potential cyclization mechanism catalyzed by ZmOSC1 via the generation of a dammarenyl cation, followed by sequential cationic ring expansion, cyclization, cationic migration and further proton elimination. This study discovered and characterized an OSC from maize for the first time, and laid a foundation to produce three bioactive pentacyclic triterpenes, hop-17(21)-en-3-ol, hopenol B and simiarenol, using synthetic biology approaches.
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11
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Wang J, Guo Y, Yin X, Wang X, Qi X, Xue Z. Diverse triterpene skeletons are derived from the expansion and divergent evolution of 2,3-oxidosqualene cyclases in plants. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 57:113-132. [PMID: 34601979 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2021.1979458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Triterpenoids are one of the largest groups of secondary metabolites and exhibit diverse structures, which are derived from C30 skeletons that are biosynthesized via the isoprenoid pathway by cyclization of 2,3-oxidosqualene. Triterpenoids have a wide range of biological activities, and are used in functional foods, drugs, and as industrial materials. Due to the low content levels in their native plants and limited feasibility and efficiency of chemical synthesis, heterologous biosynthesis of triterpenoids is the most promising strategy. Herein, we classified 121 triterpene alcohols/ketones according to their conformation and ring numbers, among which 51 skeletons have been experimentally characterized as the products of oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs). Interestingly, 24 skeletons that have not been reported from nature source were generated by OSCs in heterologous expression. Comprehensive evolutionary analysis of the identified 152 OSCs from 75 species in 25 plant orders show that several pentacyclic triterpene synthases repeatedly originated in multiple plant lineages. Comparative analysis of OSC catalytic reaction revealed that stabilization of intermediate cations, steric hindrance, and conformation of active center amino acid residues are primary factors affecting triterpene formation. Optimization of OSC could be achieved by changing of side-chain orientations of key residues. Recently, methods, such as rationally design of pathways, regulation of metabolic flow, compartmentalization engineering, etc., were introduced in improving chassis for the biosynthesis of triterpenoids. We expect that extensive study of natural variation of large number of OSCs and catalytical mechanism will provide basis for production of high level of triterpenoids by application of synthetic biology strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.,Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.,Institute of Forestry and Pomology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yanhong Guo
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.,Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Xue Yin
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.,Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Xiaoning Wang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Xiaoquan Qi
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zheyong Xue
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Saline-alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China.,Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Plant Bioactive Substance Biosynthesis and Utilization, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, PR China
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12
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Vernoud V, Lebeigle L, Munier J, Marais J, Sanchez M, Pertuit D, Rossin N, Darchy B, Aubert G, Le Signor C, Berdeaux O, Lacaille-Dubois MA, Thompson R. β-Amyrin Synthase1 Controls the Accumulation of the Major Saponins Present in Pea (Pisum sativum). PLANT & CELL PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 62:784-797. [PMID: 33826728 DOI: 10.1093/pcp/pcab049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The use of pulses as ingredients for the production of food products rich in plant proteins is increasing. However, protein fractions prepared from pea or other pulses contain significant amounts of saponins, glycosylated triterpenes that can impart an undesirable bitter taste when used as an ingredient in foodstuffs. In this article, we describe the identification and characterization of a gene involved in saponin biosynthesis during pea seed development, by screening mutants obtained from two Pisum sativum TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genomes) populations in two different genetic backgrounds. The mutations studied are located in a gene designated PsBAS1 (β-amyrin synthase1), which is highly expressed in maturing pea seeds and which encodes a protein previously shown to correspond to an active β-amyrin synthase. The first allele is a nonsense mutation, while the second mutation is located in a splice site and gives rise to a mis-spliced transcript encoding a truncated, nonfunctional protein. The homozygous mutant seeds accumulated virtually no saponin without affecting the seed nutritional or physiological quality. Interestingly, BAS1 appears to control saponin accumulation in all other tissues of the plant examined. These lines represent a first step in the development of pea varieties lacking bitterness off-flavors in their seeds. Our work also shows that TILLING populations in different genetic backgrounds represent valuable genetic resources for both crop improvement and functional genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Vernoud
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | - Ludivine Lebeigle
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
- University of Lausanne, Center for Integrative GenomicsLausanne 1015,Switzerland
| | - Jocelyn Munier
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | - Julie Marais
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | - Myriam Sanchez
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | - David Pertuit
- Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Laboratoire de Pharmacognosie EA 4267, Dijon 21079, France
| | - Nadia Rossin
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | - Brigitte Darchy
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | - Grégoire Aubert
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | - Christine Le Signor
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | - Olivier Berdeaux
- Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, AgroSup Dijon, CNRS, INRAE, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
| | | | - Richard Thompson
- Agroécologie, AgroSup Dijon, INRAE, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon 21000, France
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13
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A Review on Preparation of Betulinic Acid and Its Biological Activities. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26185583. [PMID: 34577056 PMCID: PMC8468263 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26185583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Betulinic acid, a pentacyclic triterpene, is distributed in a variety of plants, such as birch, eucalyptus and plane trees. It shows a wide spectrum of biological and pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antidiabetic, antimalarial, anti-HIV and antitumor effects. Among them, the antitumor activity of betulinic acid has been extensively studied. However, obtaining betulinic acid from natural resources can no longer meet the needs of medicine and nutrition, so methods such as chemical synthesis and microbial biotransformation have also been used to prepare betulinic acid. At the same time, with the development of synthetic biology and genetic engineering, and the elucidation of the biosynthetic pathways of terpenoid, the biosynthesis of betulinic acid has also been extensively researched. This article reviews the preparation of betulinic acid and its pharmacological activities, in order to provide a reference for the research and utilization of betulinic acid.
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14
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Garagounis C, Delkis N, Papadopoulou KK. Unraveling the roles of plant specialized metabolites: using synthetic biology to design molecular biosensors. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2021; 231:1338-1352. [PMID: 33997999 DOI: 10.1111/nph.17470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Plants are a rich source of specialized metabolites with a broad range of bioactivities and many applications in human daily life. Over the past decades significant progress has been made in identifying many such metabolites in different plant species and in elucidating their biosynthetic pathways. However, the biological roles of plant specialized metabolites remain elusive and proposed functions lack an identified underlying molecular mechanism. Understanding the roles of specialized metabolites frequently is hampered by their dynamic production and their specific spatiotemporal accumulation within plant tissues and organs throughout a plant's life cycle. In this review, we propose the employment of strategies from the field of Synthetic Biology to construct and optimize genetically encoded biosensors that can detect individual specialized metabolites in a standardized and high-throughput manner. This will help determine the precise localization of specialized metabolites at the tissue and single-cell levels. Such information will be useful in developing complete system-level models of specialized plant metabolism, which ultimately will demonstrate how the biosynthesis of specialized metabolites is integrated with the core processes of plant growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantine Garagounis
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Plant and Environmental Biotechnology Laboratory, University of Thessaly, Larissa, 41500, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Delkis
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Plant and Environmental Biotechnology Laboratory, University of Thessaly, Larissa, 41500, Greece
| | - Kalliope K Papadopoulou
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Plant and Environmental Biotechnology Laboratory, University of Thessaly, Larissa, 41500, Greece
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15
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Bachořík J, Urban M. Biocatalysis in the Chemistry of Lupane Triterpenoids. Molecules 2021; 26:2271. [PMID: 33919839 PMCID: PMC8070785 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26082271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pentacyclic triterpenes are important representatives of natural products that exhibit a wide variety of biological activities. These activities suggest that these compounds may represent potential medicines for the treatment of cancer and viral, bacterial, or protozoal infections. Naturally occurring triterpenes usually have several drawbacks, such as limited activity and insufficient solubility and bioavailability; therefore, they need to be modified to obtain compounds suitable for drug development. Modifications can be achieved either by methods of standard organic synthesis or with the use of biocatalysts, such as enzymes or enzyme systems within living organisms. In most cases, these modifications result in the preparation of esters, amides, saponins, or sugar conjugates. Notably, while standard organic synthesis has been heavily used and developed, the use of the latter methodology has been rather limited, but it appears that biocatalysis has recently sparked considerably wider interest within the scientific community. Among triterpenes, derivatives of lupane play important roles. This review therefore summarizes the natural occurrence and sources of lupane triterpenoids, their biosynthesis, and semisynthetic methods that may be used for the production of betulinic acid from abundant and inexpensive betulin. Most importantly, this article compares chemical transformations of lupane triterpenoids with analogous reactions performed by biocatalysts and highlights a large space for the future development of biocatalysis in this field. The results of this study may serve as a summary of the current state of research and demonstrate the potential of the method in future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Bachořík
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Palacký University in Olomouc, 17. listopadu 12, 771 46 Olomouc, Czech Republic;
| | - Milan Urban
- Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacký University in Olomouc, Hněvotínská 5, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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16
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Li D, Gan G, Li W, Li W, Jiang Y, Liang X, Yu N, Chen R, Wang Y. Inheritance of Solanum chloroplast genomic DNA in interspecific hybrids. Mitochondrial DNA B Resour 2021; 6:351-357. [PMID: 33659675 PMCID: PMC7872556 DOI: 10.1080/23802359.2020.1866450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The chloroplast genomic information was obtained from three wild Solanum and four hybrids by chloroplast genome sequencing. The chloroplast genomes of the seven samples comprise of a circular structure and sizes from 155,581 to 155,612 bp and composed of 130 genes. The genome structures of the two hybrids were identical, while the other two hybrids showed 2 bp differences in the LSC when compared with their maternal parent. The total sites of SNP and InDel were 39-344 and 54-90, respectively. With the exception of one hybrid with two additional sites, the other hybrids were identical to their maternal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Li
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Vegetable Research, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Guiyun Gan
- Institute of Vegetable Research, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Weiliu Li
- Institute of Vegetable Research, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Wenjia Li
- Institute of Vegetable Research, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Yaqin Jiang
- Institute of Vegetable Research, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Xuyu Liang
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ning Yu
- Institute of Vegetable Research, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Riyuan Chen
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yikui Wang
- Institute of Vegetable Research, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, China
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17
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Guo H, Wang H, Huo YX. Engineering Critical Enzymes and Pathways for Improved Triterpenoid Biosynthesis in Yeast. ACS Synth Biol 2020; 9:2214-2227. [PMID: 32786348 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.0c00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Triterpenoids represent a diverse group of phytochemicals that are widely distributed in the plant kingdom and have many biological activities. The heterologous production of triterpenoids in Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been successfully implemented by introducing various triterpenoid biosynthetic pathways. By engineering related enzymes as well as through yeast metabolism, the yield of various triterpenoids is significantly improved from the milligram per liter scale to the gram per liter scale. This achievement demonstrates that engineering critical enzymes is considered a potential strategy to overcome the main hurdles of the industrial application of these potent natural products. Here, we review strategies for designing enzymes to improve the yield of triterpenoids in S. cerevisiae in terms of three main aspects: 1, elevating the supply of the precursor 2,3-oxidosqualene; 2, optimizing triterpenoid-involved reactions; and 3, lowering the competition of the native sterol pathway. Then, we provide challenges and prospects for further enhancing triterpenoid production in S. cerevisiae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, P. R. China
| | - Huiyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Xin Huo
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, P. R. China
- SIP-UCLA Institute for Technology Advancement, Suzhou, 215123, P. R. China
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, 266101, P. R. China
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18
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Shi Y, Chen J, Hou X. Similarities and Differences of Photosynthesis Establishment Related mRNAs and Novel lncRNAs in Early Seedlings (Coleoptile/Cotyledon vs. True Leaf) of Rice and Arabidopsis. Front Genet 2020; 11:565006. [PMID: 33093843 PMCID: PMC7506105 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.565006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Photosynthesis uses sunlight and carbon dioxide to produce biomass that is vital to all life on earth. In seed plants, leaf is the main organ for photosynthesis and production of organic nutrients. The seeds are mobilized to fuel post-germination seedling growth until seedling photosynthesis can be efficiently established. However, the photosynthesis and metabolism in the early growth and development have not been studied systematically and are still largely unknown. In this study, we used two model plants, rice (Oryza sativa L.; monocotyledonous) and Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana; dicotyledonous) to determine the similarities and differences in photosynthesis in cotyledons and true leaves during the early developmental stages. The photosynthesis-related genes and proteins, and chloroplast functions were determined through RNA-seq, real-time PCR, western blotting and chlorophyll fluorescence analysis. We found that in rice, the photosynthesis established gradually from coleoptile (cpt), incomplete leaf (icl) to first complete leaf (fcl); whereas, in Arabidopsis, photosynthesis well-developed in cotyledon, and the photosynthesis-related genes and proteins expressed comparably in cotyledon (cot), first true leaf (ftl) and second true leaf (stl). Additionally, we attempted to establish an mRNA-lncRNA signature to explore the similarities and differences in photosynthesis establishment between the two species, and found that DEGs, including encoding mRNAs and novel lncRNAs, related to photosynthesis in three stages have considerable differences between rice and Arabidopsis. Further GO and KEGG analysis systematically revealed the similarities and differences of expression styles of photosystem subunits and assembly factors, and starch and sucrose metabolisms between cotyledons and true leaves in the two species. Our results help to elucidate the gene functions of mRNA-lncRNA signatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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19
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An T, Zha W, Zi J. Biotechnological production of betulinic acid and derivatives and their applications. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 104:3339-3348. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-020-10495-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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20
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Suzuki H, Fukushima EO, Shimizu Y, Seki H, Fujisawa Y, Ishimoto M, Osakabe K, Osakabe Y, Muranaka T. Lotus japonicus Triterpenoid Profile and Characterization of the CYP716A51 and LjCYP93E1 Genes Involved in Their Biosynthesis In Planta. PLANT & CELL PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 60:2496-2509. [PMID: 31418782 DOI: 10.1093/pcp/pcz145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Lotus japonicus is an important model legume plant in several fields of research, such as secondary (specialized) metabolism and symbiotic nodulation. This plant accumulates triterpenoids; however, less information regarding its composition, content and biosynthesis is available compared with Medicago truncatula and Glycine max. In this study, we analyzed the triterpenoid content and composition of L. japonicus. Lotus japonicus accumulated C-28-oxidized triterpenoids (ursolic, betulinic and oleanolic acids) and soyasapogenols (soyasapogenol B, A and E) in a tissue-dependent manner. We identified an oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC) and two cytochrome P450 enzymes (P450s) involved in triterpenoid biosynthesis using a yeast heterologous expression system. OSC9 was the first enzyme derived from L. japonicus that showed α-amyrin (a precursor of ursolic acid)-producing activity. CYP716A51 showed triterpenoid C-28 oxidation activity. LjCYP93E1 converted β-amyrin into 24-hydroxy-β-amyrin, a metabolic intermediate of soyasapogenols. The involvement of the identified genes in triterpenoid biosynthesis in L. japonicus plants was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. Furthermore, gene loss-of-function analysis of CYP716A51 and LjCYP93E1 was conducted. The cyp716a51-mutant L. japonicus hairy roots generated by the genome-editing technique produced no C-28 oxidized triterpenoids. Likewise, the complete abolition of soyasapogenols and soyasaponin I was observed in mutant plants harboring Lotus retrotransposon 1 (LORE1) in LjCYP93E1. These results indicate that the activities of these P450 enzymes are essential for triterpenoid biosynthesis in L. japonicus. This study increases our understanding of triterpenoid biosynthesis in leguminous plants and provides information that will facilitate further studies of the physiological functions of triterpenoids using L. japonicus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayato Suzuki
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ery Odette Fukushima
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Universidad Regional Amaz�nica IKIAM, Km 7 Via Muyuna, Napo, Tena, Ecuador
| | - Yuko Shimizu
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hikaru Seki
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yukiko Fujisawa
- Institute of Crop Science, NARO, 2-1-2 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masao Ishimoto
- Institute of Crop Science, NARO, 2-1-2 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Keishi Osakabe
- Division of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Graduate School of Technology, Industrial and Social Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yuriko Osakabe
- Division of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Graduate School of Technology, Industrial and Social Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Toshiya Muranaka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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21
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Tzin V, Snyder JH, Yang DS, Huhman DV, Watson BS, Allen SN, Tang Y, Miettinen K, Arendt P, Pollier J, Goossens A, Sumner LW. Integrated metabolomics identifies CYP72A67 and CYP72A68 oxidases in the biosynthesis of Medicago truncatula oleanate sapogenins. Metabolomics 2019; 15:85. [PMID: 31144047 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-019-1542-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Triterpene saponins are important bioactive plant natural products found in many plant families including the Leguminosae. OBJECTIVES We characterize two Medicago truncatula cytochrome P450 enzymes, MtCYP72A67 and MtCYP72A68, involved in saponin biosynthesis including both in vitro and in planta evidence. METHODS UHPLC-(-)ESI-QToF-MS was used to profile saponin accumulation across a collection of 106 M. truncatula ecotypes. The profiling results identified numerous ecotypes with high and low saponin accumulation in root and aerial tissues. Four ecotypes with significant differential saponin content in the root and/or aerial tissues were selected, and correlated gene expression profiling was performed. RESULTS Correlation analyses between gene expression and saponin accumulation revealed high correlations between saponin content with gene expression of β-amyrin synthase, MtCYP716A12, and two cytochromes P450 genes, MtCYP72A67 and MtCYP72A68. In vivo and in vitro biochemical assays using yeast microsomes containing MtCYP72A67 revealed hydroxylase activity for carbon 2 of oleanolic acid and hederagenin. This finding was supported by functional characterization of MtCYP72A67 using RNAi-mediated gene silencing in M. truncatula hairy roots, which revealed a significant reduction of 2β-hydroxylated sapogenins. In vivo and in vitro assays with MtCYP72A68 produced in yeast showed multifunctional oxidase activity for carbon 23 of oleanolic acid and hederagenin. These findings were supported by overexpression of MtCYP72A68 in M. truncatula hairy roots, which revealed significant increases of oleanolic acid, 2β-hydroxyoleanolic acid, hederagenin and total saponin levels. CONCLUSIONS The cumulative data support that MtCYP72A68 is a multisubstrate, multifunctional oxidase and MtCYP72A67 is a 2β-hydroxylase, both of which function during the early steps of triterpene-oleanate sapogenin biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vered Tzin
- Plant Biology Division, Noble Research Institute, Ardmore, OKLA, 73401, USA.
- French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, Israel.
| | - John H Snyder
- Plant Biology Division, Noble Research Institute, Ardmore, OKLA, 73401, USA
- Department of Plant Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Sik Yang
- Plant Biology Division, Noble Research Institute, Ardmore, OKLA, 73401, USA
- Biomaterials Laboratory, Material Research Center, Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology, Suwon, South Korea
| | - David V Huhman
- Plant Biology Division, Noble Research Institute, Ardmore, OKLA, 73401, USA
| | - Bonnie S Watson
- Plant Biology Division, Noble Research Institute, Ardmore, OKLA, 73401, USA
| | - Stacy N Allen
- Plant Biology Division, Noble Research Institute, Ardmore, OKLA, 73401, USA
| | - Yuhong Tang
- Plant Biology Division, Noble Research Institute, Ardmore, OKLA, 73401, USA
| | - Karel Miettinen
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Philipp Arendt
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jacob Pollier
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alain Goossens
- Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
- VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology, 9052, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lloyd W Sumner
- Plant Biology Division, Noble Research Institute, Ardmore, OKLA, 73401, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, Interdisciplinary Plant Group, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
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22
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Sun W, Qin L, Xue H, Yu Y, Ma Y, Wang Y, Li C. Novel trends for producing plant triterpenoids in yeast. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2019; 39:618-632. [DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2019.1608503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Sun
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Qin
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Haijie Xue
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yihua Ma
- The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Chun Li
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
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23
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Berni R, Hoque MZ, Legay S, Cai G, Siddiqui KS, Hausman JF, Andre CM, Guerriero G. Tuscan Varieties of Sweet Cherry Are Rich Sources of Ursolic and Oleanolic Acid: Protein Modeling Coupled to Targeted Gene Expression and Metabolite Analyses. Molecules 2019; 24:E1590. [PMID: 31013661 PMCID: PMC6515059 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24081590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential of six ancient Tuscan sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) varieties as a source of health-promoting pentacyclic triterpenes is here evaluated by means of a targeted gene expression and metabolite analysis. By using a sequence homology criterion, we identify five oxidosqualene cyclase genes (OSCs) and three cytochrome P450s (CYP85s) that are putatively involved in the triterpene production pathway in sweet cherries. We performed 3D structure prediction and induced-fit docking using cation intermediates and reaction products for some OSCs to predict their function. We show that the Tuscan varieties have different amounts of ursolic and oleanolic acids and that these variations are related to different gene expression profiles. This study stresses the interest of valorizing ancient fruits as alternative sources of functional molecules with nutraceutical value. It also provides information on sweet cherry triterpene biosynthetic genes, which could be the object of follow-up functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Berni
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Trees and Timber Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), via Aurelia 49, 58022 Follonica (GR), Italy.
| | - Mubasher Zahir Hoque
- Bio-Bio-1 Research Foundation, Sangskriti Bikash Kendra Bhaban, 1/E/1 Poribagh, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh.
- Life Sciences Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sylvain Legay
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5 avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Khawar Sohail Siddiqui
- Life Sciences Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Jean-Francois Hausman
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5 avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Christelle M Andre
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5 avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Gea Guerriero
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5 avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
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24
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Cloning and expression analysis of three critical triterpenoid pathway genes in Osmanthus fragrans. ELECTRON J BIOTECHN 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejbt.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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25
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Yu Y, Chang P, Yu H, Ren H, Hong D, Li Z, Wang Y, Song H, Huo Y, Li C. Productive Amyrin Synthases for Efficient α-Amyrin Synthesis in Engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae. ACS Synth Biol 2018; 7:2391-2402. [PMID: 30216049 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.8b00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
α-Amyrin is a plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenoid, with a lot of important physiological and pharmacological activities. The formation of α-amyrin from (3 S)-2,3-oxidosqualene is catalyzed by α-amyrin synthase (α-AS), a member of the oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC) protein family. However, α-amyrin is not yet commercially developed due to its extremely low productivity in plants. The engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae with efficient α-amyrin production pathway could be used as an alternative and sustainable solution to produce α-amyrin from renewable raw materials. To efficiently improve α-amyrin production in S. cerevisiae, we identified two α-ASs, EjAS and MdOSC1 from Eriobotrya japonica and Malus × domestica, respectively, through strict bioinformatics screening criteria and phylogenetic analysis. The specific activities of purified EjAS and MdOSC1 were 0.0032 and 0.0293 μmol/min/mg, respectively. EjAS produced α-amyrin and β-amyrin at a ratio of 17:3, MdOSC1 produced α-amyrin, β-amyrin and lupeol at a ratio of 86:13:1, indicating MdOSC1 had significantly higher specific activity and higher ratio of α-amyrin than EjAS. Furthermore, MdOSC1 was introduced into S. cerevisiae combining with the increased supply of (3 S)-2,3-oxidosqualene to achieve the encouraging α-amyrin production, and the titer of α-amyrin achieved 11.97 ± 0.61 mg/L, 5.8 folds of the maximum production reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
- Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
- College of Life Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, 21 Bo Hai Road, Tangshan 063210, PR China
| | - Pengcheng Chang
- Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Huan Yu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Huiyong Ren
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Danning Hong
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Zeyan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Ying Wang
- Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Hao Song
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Yixin Huo
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Chun Li
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
- Institute for Synthetic Biosystem, Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 Zhong Guan Cun Nan Road, Beijing 100081, PR China
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26
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Suzuki H, Fukushima EO, Umemoto N, Ohyama K, Seki H, Muranaka T. Comparative analysis of CYP716A subfamily enzymes for the heterologous production of C-28 oxidized triterpenoids in transgenic yeast. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY (TOKYO, JAPAN) 2018; 35:131-139. [PMID: 31819715 PMCID: PMC6879395 DOI: 10.5511/plantbiotechnology.18.0416a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Several enzymes of the CYP716A subfamily have been reported to be involved in triterpenoid biosynthesis. Members of this subfamily oxidize various positions along the triterpenoid backbone and the majority of them catalyze a three-step oxidation at the C-28 position. Interestingly, C-28 oxidation is a common feature in oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, and betulinic acid, which are widely distributed in plants and exhibit important biological activities. In this work, three additional CYP716A enzymes isolated from olive, sugar beet, and coffee, were characterized as multifunctional C-28 oxidases. Semi-quantitative comparisons of in vivo catalytic activity were made against the previously characterized enzymes CYP716A12, CYP716A15, and CYP716A52v2. When heterologously expressed in yeast, the isolated enzymes differed in both catalytic activity and substrate specificity. This study indicates that the screening of enzymes from different plants could be a useful means of identifying enzymes with enhanced catalytic activity and desired substrate specificity. Furthermore, we show that "naturally-evolved" enzymes can be useful in the heterologous production of pharmacologically and industrially important triterpenoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayato Suzuki
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ery Odette Fukushima
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Center for Open Innovation Research and Education, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Umemoto
- Central Laboratories for Frontier Technology, Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd., Sakura, Tochigi 329-1414, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Ohyama
- Department of Chemistry and Materials Science, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Meguro, Tokyo 152-8551, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Suehiro-cho 1-7-22, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 244-0045, Japan
| | - Hikaru Seki
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Suehiro-cho 1-7-22, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 244-0045, Japan
| | - Toshiya Muranaka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Suehiro-cho 1-7-22, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 244-0045, Japan
- E-mail: Tel: +81-6-6879-7423 Fax: +81-6-6879-7426
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27
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Loeschcke A, Dienst D, Wewer V, Hage-Hülsmann J, Dietsch M, Kranz-Finger S, Hüren V, Metzger S, Urlacher VB, Gigolashvili T, Kopriva S, Axmann IM, Drepper T, Jaeger KE. The photosynthetic bacteria Rhodobacter capsulatus and Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 as new hosts for cyclic plant triterpene biosynthesis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0189816. [PMID: 29281679 PMCID: PMC5744966 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic triterpenes constitute one of the most diverse groups of plant natural products. Besides the intriguing biochemistry of their biosynthetic pathways, plant triterpenes exhibit versatile bioactivities, including antimicrobial effects against plant and human pathogens. While prokaryotes have been extensively used for the heterologous production of other classes of terpenes, the synthesis of cyclic triterpenes, which inherently includes the two-step catalytic formation of the universal linear precursor 2,3-oxidosqualene, is still a major challenge. We thus explored the suitability of the metabolically versatile photosynthetic α-proteobacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus SB1003 and cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 as alternative hosts for biosynthesis of cyclic plant triterpenes. Therefore, 2,3-oxidosqualene production was implemented and subsequently combined with different cyclization reactions catalyzed by the representative oxidosqualene cyclases CAS1 (cycloartenol synthase), LUP1 (lupeol synthase), THAS1 (thalianol synthase) and MRN1 (marneral synthase) derived from model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. While successful accumulation of 2,3-oxidosqualene could be detected by LC-MS analysis in both hosts, cyclase expression resulted in differential production profiles. CAS1 catalyzed conversion to only cycloartenol, but expression of LUP1 yielded lupeol and a triterpenoid matching an oxidation product of lupeol, in both hosts. In contrast, THAS1 expression did not lead to cyclic product formation in either host, whereas MRN1-dependent production of marnerol and hydroxymarnerol was observed in Synechocystis but not in R. capsulatus. Our findings thus indicate that 2,3-oxidosqualene cyclization in heterologous phototrophic bacteria is basically feasible but efficient conversion depends on both the respective cyclase enzyme and individual host properties. Therefore, photosynthetic α-proteo- and cyanobacteria are promising alternative candidates for providing new bacterial access to the broad class of triterpenes for biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Loeschcke
- Institute of Molecular Enzyme Technology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
| | - Dennis Dienst
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Institute for Synthetic Microbiology, Department of Biology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Vera Wewer
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- MS Platform, Department of Biology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jennifer Hage-Hülsmann
- Institute of Molecular Enzyme Technology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
| | - Maximilian Dietsch
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Institute for Synthetic Microbiology, Department of Biology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sarah Kranz-Finger
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Department of Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Vanessa Hüren
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Institute for Synthetic Microbiology, Department of Biology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sabine Metzger
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- MS Platform, Department of Biology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Vlada B. Urlacher
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Department of Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tamara Gigolashvili
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Botanical Institute, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Stanislav Kopriva
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Botanical Institute, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ilka M. Axmann
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Institute for Synthetic Microbiology, Department of Biology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- * E-mail: (IMA); (TD)
| | - Thomas Drepper
- Institute of Molecular Enzyme Technology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- * E-mail: (IMA); (TD)
| | - Karl-Erich Jaeger
- Institute of Molecular Enzyme Technology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS)
- Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG-1), Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
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28
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Sun R, Liu S, Tang ZZ, Zheng TR, Wang T, Chen H, Li CL, Wu Q. β-Amyrin synthase from Conyza blinii expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. FEBS Open Bio 2017; 7:1575-1585. [PMID: 28979844 PMCID: PMC5623702 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.12299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Conyza blinii H.Lév. is a widely used medicinal herb in southwestern China. The main pharmacological components of C. blinii are a class of oleanane-type pentacyclic triterpene glycosides known as conyzasaponins, which are thought to be synthesized from β-amyrin. However, no genes involved in the conyzasaponin pathway have previously been identified. Here, we identify an oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC), a β-amyrin synthase, which mediates cyclization of 2,3-oxidosqualene to yield β-amyrin. Ten OSC sequences were isolated from C. blinii transcript tags. Phylogenetic analysis was used to select the tag Cb18076 as the putative β-amyrin synthase, named CbβAS. The open reading frame of CbβAS is 2286 bp and encodes 761 amino acids. Its mature protein contains the highly conserved motifs (QXXXGXW/DCTAE) of OSCs and (MWCYCR) of β-amyrin synthases. Transcription of CbβAS was upregulated 4-24 h after treatment of the seedlings of the C. blinii cultivar with methyl jasmonate. Furthermore, expression of CbβAS in Saccharomyces cerevisiae successfully yielded β-amyrin. The chemical structures and concentrations of β-amyrin were confirmed by GC-MS/MS. The target yeast ultimately produced 4.432 mg·L-1 β-amyrin. Thus, CbβAS is an OSC involved in conyzasaponin biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Sun
- College of Life Science Sichuan Agricultural University Ya'an China
| | - Shan Liu
- College of Biological and Chemical Engineering Panzhihua University China
| | - Zi-Zhong Tang
- College of Life Science Sichuan Agricultural University Ya'an China
| | - Tian-Run Zheng
- College of Life Science Sichuan Agricultural University Ya'an China
| | - Tao Wang
- College of Life Science Sichuan Agricultural University Ya'an China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Life Science Sichuan Agricultural University Ya'an China
| | - Cheng-Lei Li
- College of Life Science Sichuan Agricultural University Ya'an China
| | - Qi Wu
- College of Life Science Sichuan Agricultural University Ya'an China
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An Intronless β-amyrin Synthase Gene is More Efficient in Oleanolic Acid Accumulation than its Paralog in Gentiana straminea. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33364. [PMID: 27624821 PMCID: PMC5022052 DOI: 10.1038/srep33364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Paralogous members of the oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC) family encode a diversity of enzymes that are important in triterpenoid biosynthesis. This report describes the isolation of the Gentiana straminea gene GsAS2 that encodes a β-amyrin synthase (βAS) enzyme. Unlike its previously isolated paralog GsAS1, GsAS2 lacks introns. Its predicted protein product was is a 759 residue polypeptide that shares high homology with other known β-amyrin synthases (βASs). Heterologously expressed GsAS2 generates more β-amyrin in yeast than does GsAS1. Constitutive over-expression of GsAS2 resulted in a 5.7 fold increase in oleanolic acid accumulation, while over-expression of GsAS1 led to a 3 fold increase. Additionally, RNAi-directed suppression of GsAS2 and GsAS1 in G. straminea decreased oleonolic acid levels by 65.9% and 21% respectively, indicating that GsAS2 plays a more important role than GsAS1 in oleanolic acid biosynthesis in G. straminea. We uses a docking model to explore the catalytic mechanism of GsAS1/2 and predicted that GsAS2, with its Y560, have higher efficiency than GsAS1 and mutated versions of GsAS2 in β-amyrin produce. When the key residue in GsAS2 was mutagenized, it produced about 41.29% and 71.15% less β-amyrin than native, while the key residue in GsAS1 was mutagenized to that in GsAS2, the mutant produced 38.02% more β-amyrin than native GsAS1.
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31
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Singh B, Sharma RA. Plant terpenes: defense responses, phylogenetic analysis, regulation and clinical applications. 3 Biotech 2015; 5:129-151. [PMID: 28324581 PMCID: PMC4362742 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-014-0220-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The terpenoids constitute the largest class of natural products and many interesting products are extensively applied in the industrial sector as flavors, fragrances, spices and are also used in perfumery and cosmetics. Many terpenoids have biological activities and also used for medical purposes. In higher plants, the conventional acetate-mevalonic acid pathway operates mainly in the cytosol and mitochondria and synthesizes sterols, sesquiterpenes and ubiquinones mainly. In the plastid, the non-mevalonic acid pathway takes place and synthesizes hemi-, mono-, sesqui-, and diterpenes along with carotenoids and phytol tail of chlorophyll. In this review paper, recent developments in the biosynthesis of terpenoids, indepth description of terpene synthases and their phylogenetic analysis, regulation of terpene biosynthesis as well as updates of terpenes which have entered in the clinical studies are reviewed thoroughly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharat Singh
- AIB, Amity University Rajasthan, NH-11C, Kant Kalwar, Jaipur, 303 002, India.
| | - Ram A Sharma
- Department of Botany, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, 302 055, India
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Moses T, Papadopoulou KK, Osbourn A. Metabolic and functional diversity of saponins, biosynthetic intermediates and semi-synthetic derivatives. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2014; 49:439-62. [PMID: 25286183 PMCID: PMC4266039 DOI: 10.3109/10409238.2014.953628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Saponins are widely distributed plant natural products with vast structural and functional diversity. They are typically composed of a hydrophobic aglycone, which is extensively decorated with functional groups prior to the addition of hydrophilic sugar moieties, to result in surface-active amphipathic compounds. The saponins are broadly classified as triterpenoids, steroids or steroidal glycoalkaloids, based on the aglycone structure from which they are derived. The saponins and their biosynthetic intermediates display a variety of biological activities of interest to the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food sectors. Although their relevance in industrial applications has long been recognized, their role in plants is underexplored. Recent research on modulating native pathway flux in saponin biosynthesis has demonstrated the roles of saponins and their biosynthetic intermediates in plant growth and development. Here, we review the literature on the effects of these molecules on plant physiology, which collectively implicate them in plant primary processes. The industrial uses and potential of saponins are discussed with respect to structure and activity, highlighting the undoubted value of these molecules as therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Moses
- Department of Metabolic Biology, John Innes CentreColney Lane, NorwichUK
| | | | - Anne Osbourn
- Department of Metabolic Biology, John Innes CentreColney Lane, NorwichUK
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Dhar N, Rana S, Razdan S, Bhat WW, Hussain A, Dhar RS, Vaishnavi S, Hamid A, Vishwakarma R, Lattoo SK. Cloning and functional characterization of three branch point oxidosqualene cyclases from Withania somnifera (L.) dunal. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:17249-67. [PMID: 24770414 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.571919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs) positioned at a key metabolic subdividing junction execute indispensable enzymatic cyclization of 2,3-oxidosqualene for varied triterpenoid biosynthesis. Such branch points present favorable gene targets for redirecting metabolic flux toward specific secondary metabolites. However, detailed information regarding the candidate OSCs covering different branches and their regulation is necessary for the desired genetic manipulation. The aim of the present study, therefore, was to characterize members of OSC superfamily from Withania somnifera (Ws), a medicinal plant of immense repute known to synthesize a large array of biologically active steroidal lactone triterpenoids called withanolides. Three full-length OSC cDNAs, β-amyrin synthase (WsOSC/BS), lupeol synthase (WsOSC/LS), and cycloartenol synthase (WsOSC/CS), having open reading frames of 2289, 2268, and 2277 bp, were isolated. Heterologous expression in Schizosaccharomyces pombe, LC-MS analyses, and kinetic studies confirmed their monofunctionality. The three WsOSCs were found to be spatially regulated at transcriptional level with WsOSC/CS being maximally expressed in leaf tissue. Promoter analysis of three WsOSCs genes resulted in identification of distinct cis-regulatory elements. Further, transcript profiling under methyl jasmonate, gibberellic acid, and yeast extract elicitations displayed differential transcriptional regulation of each of the OSCs. Changes were also observed in mRNA levels under elicitations and further substantiated with protein expression levels by Western blotting. Negative regulation by yeast extract resulted in significant increase in withanolide content. Empirical evidence suggests that repression of competitive branch OSCs like WsOSC/BS and WsOSC/LS possibly leads to diversion of substrate pool toward WsOSC/CS for increased withanolide production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niha Dhar
- From the Divisions of Plant Biotechnology
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Samantha Vaishnavi
- the School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra-182320, India
| | | | - Ram Vishwakarma
- Medicinal Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu Tawi-180001, India and
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Gholami A, De Geyter N, Pollier J, Goormachtig S, Goossens A. Natural product biosynthesis in Medicago species. Nat Prod Rep 2014; 31:356-80. [PMID: 24481477 DOI: 10.1039/c3np70104b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The genus Medicago, a member of the legume (Fabaceae) family, comprises 87 species of flowering plants, including the forage crop M. sativa (alfalfa) and the model legume M. truncatula (barrel medic). Medicago species synthesize a variety of bioactive natural products that are used to engage into symbiotic interactions but also serve to deter pathogens and herbivores. For humans, these bioactive natural products often possess promising pharmaceutical properties. In this review, we focus on the two most interesting and well characterized secondary metabolite classes found in Medicago species, the triterpene saponins and the flavonoids, with a detailed overview of their biosynthesis, regulation, and profiling methods. Furthermore, their biological role within the plant as well as their potential utility for human health or other applications is discussed. Finally, we give an overview of the advances made in metabolic engineering in Medicago species and how the development of novel molecular and omics toolkits can influence a better understanding of this genus in terms of specialized metabolism and chemistry. Throughout, we critically analyze the current bottlenecks and speculate on future directions and opportunities for research and exploitation of Medicago metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azra Gholami
- Department of Plant Systems Biology, VIB, Ghent University, Technologiepark 927, B-9052 Gent, Belgium.
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Thimmappa R, Geisler K, Louveau T, O'Maille P, Osbourn A. Triterpene biosynthesis in plants. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PLANT BIOLOGY 2014; 65:225-57. [PMID: 24498976 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-arplant-050312-120229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 411] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The triterpenes are one of the most numerous and diverse groups of plant natural products. They are complex molecules that are, for the most part, beyond the reach of chemical synthesis. Simple triterpenes are components of surface waxes and specialized membranes and may potentially act as signaling molecules, whereas complex glycosylated triterpenes (saponins) provide protection against pathogens and pests. Simple and conjugated triterpenes have a wide range of applications in the food, health, and industrial biotechnology sectors. Here, we review recent developments in the field of triterpene biosynthesis, give an overview of the genes and enzymes that have been identified to date, and discuss strategies for discovering new triterpene biosynthetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesha Thimmappa
- Department of Metabolic Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UH, United Kingdom;
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Krokida A, Delis C, Geisler K, Garagounis C, Tsikou D, Peña-Rodríguez LM, Katsarou D, Field B, Osbourn AE, Papadopoulou KK. A metabolic gene cluster in Lotus japonicus discloses novel enzyme functions and products in triterpene biosynthesis. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2013; 200:675-690. [PMID: 23909862 DOI: 10.1111/nph.12414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 06/20/2013] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Genes for triterpene biosynthetic pathways exist as metabolic gene clusters in oat and Arabidopsis thaliana plants. We characterized the presence of an analogous gene cluster in the model legume Lotus japonicus. In the genomic regions flanking the oxidosqualene cyclase AMY2 gene, genes for two different classes of cytochrome P450 and a gene predicted to encode a reductase were identified. Functional characterization of the cluster genes was pursued by heterologous expression in Nicotiana benthamiana. The gene expression pattern was studied under different developmental and environmental conditions. The physiological role of the gene cluster in nodulation and plant development was studied in knockdown experiments. A novel triterpene structure, dihydrolupeol, was produced by AMY2. A new plant cytochrome P450, CYP71D353, which catalyses the formation of 20-hydroxybetulinic acid in a sequential three-step oxidation of 20-hydroxylupeol was characterized. The genes within the cluster are highly co-expressed during root and nodule development, in hormone-treated plants and under various environmental stresses. A transcriptional gene silencing mechanism that appears to be involved in the regulation of the cluster genes was also revealed. A tightly co-regulated cluster of functionally related genes is involved in legume triterpene biosynthesis, with a possible role in plant development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afrodite Krokida
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Ploutonos 26 & Aeolou Str., Larisa, 41221, Greece
| | - Costas Delis
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Ploutonos 26 & Aeolou Str., Larisa, 41221, Greece
| | - Katrin Geisler
- Department of Metabolic Biology, John Innes Centre, Colney Lane, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Constantine Garagounis
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Ploutonos 26 & Aeolou Str., Larisa, 41221, Greece
| | - Daniela Tsikou
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Ploutonos 26 & Aeolou Str., Larisa, 41221, Greece
| | - Luis M Peña-Rodríguez
- Unidad de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - Dimitra Katsarou
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Ploutonos 26 & Aeolou Str., Larisa, 41221, Greece
| | - Ben Field
- Department of Metabolic Biology, John Innes Centre, Colney Lane, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Anne E Osbourn
- Department of Metabolic Biology, John Innes Centre, Colney Lane, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Kalliope K Papadopoulou
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Ploutonos 26 & Aeolou Str., Larisa, 41221, Greece
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Weng JK. Elegant biochemistry, chaotic origin. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2013; 200:592-594. [PMID: 24117804 DOI: 10.1111/nph.12479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ke Weng
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research and Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 9 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
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Vishwakarma RK, Sonawane P, Singh S, Kumari U, Khan BM. Molecular characterization and differential expression studies of an oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC) gene of Brahmi (Bacopa monniera). PHYSIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF PLANTS : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FUNCTIONAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2013; 19:547-53. [PMID: 24431524 PMCID: PMC3781283 DOI: 10.1007/s12298-013-0195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Triterpenoid saponins are the class of secondary metabolites, synthesized via isoprenoid pathway. Oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs) catalyzes the cyclization of 2, 3-oxidosqualene to various triterpene skeletons, the first committed step in triterpenoid biosynthesis. A full-length oxidosqualene cyclase cDNA from Bacopa monniera (BmOSC) was isolated and characterized. The open reading frame (ORF) of BmOSC consists of 2,292 bp, encoding 764 amino acid residues with an apparent molecular mass of 87.62 kDa and theoretical pI 6.21. It contained four QxxxxxW motifs, one Asp-Cys-Thr-Ala-Glu (DCTAE) motif which is highly conserved among the triterpene synthases and another MWCYCR motif involved in the formation of triterpenoid skeletons. The deduced amino acid sequence of BmOSC shares 80.5 % & 71.8 % identity and 89.7 % & 83.5 % similarity with Olea europaea mixed amyrin synthase and Panax notoginseng dammarenediol synthase respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that BmOSC is closely related with other plant OSCs. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) data showed that BmOSC is expressed in all tissues examined with higher expression in stem and leaves as compared to roots and floral parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishi K. Vishwakarma
- Plant Tissue Culture Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune, 411 008 Maharashtra India
| | - Prashant Sonawane
- Plant Tissue Culture Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune, 411 008 Maharashtra India
| | - Somesh Singh
- Plant Tissue Culture Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune, 411 008 Maharashtra India
| | - Uma Kumari
- Plant Tissue Culture Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune, 411 008 Maharashtra India
| | - Bashir M. Khan
- Plant Tissue Culture Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune, 411 008 Maharashtra India
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Putative genes involved in saikosaponin biosynthesis in Bupleurum species. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:12806-26. [PMID: 23783277 PMCID: PMC3709813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140612806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Revised: 06/13/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative medicinal agents, such as the herb Bupleurum, are increasingly used in modern medicine to supplement synthetic drugs. First, we present a review of the currently known effects of triterpene saponins-saikosaponins of Bupleurum species. The putative biosynthetic pathway of saikosaponins in Bupleurum species is summarized, followed by discussions on identification and characterization of genes involved in the biosynthesis of saikosaponins. The purpose is to provide a brief review of gene extraction, functional characterization of isolated genes and assessment of expression patterns of genes encoding enzymes in the process of saikosaponin production in Bupleurum species, mainly B. kaoi. We focus on the effects of MeJA on saikosaponin production, transcription patterns of genes involved in biosynthesis and on functional depiction.
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Fukushima EO, Seki H, Sawai S, Suzuki M, Ohyama K, Saito K, Muranaka T. Combinatorial Biosynthesis of Legume Natural and Rare Triterpenoids in Engineered Yeast. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 54:740-9. [DOI: 10.1093/pcp/pct015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Molecular cloning, expression, purification, and functional characterization of dammarenediol synthase from Panax ginseng. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2012; 2013:285740. [PMID: 23484102 PMCID: PMC3591206 DOI: 10.1155/2013/285740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2012] [Revised: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 11/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to clone and charecterize the expression of dammarenediol synthase gene and then to determine the relationship between the expression of dammarenediol synthase gene that is involved in the ginsenoside biosynthetic pathway and the ginsenoside content. A cDNA phage library was constructed from a five-year-old ginseng root. The cDNA library was screened for the dammarenediol synthase gene by using its specific primers. It was further cloned and expressed in pET-30a vector. The recombinant plasmid pET-30a-DS was expressed in Rosetta E. coli. The recombinant DS protein was purified by affinity chromatography. The production of dammarenediol was detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Results showed that dammarenediol synthase gene was cloned from the cDNA library and was expressed in Rosetta E. coli and the SDS-PAGE analysis showed the presence of purified DS protein. LS-MS showed the activity of DS protein, as the protein content increases the dammarenediol increases. Our results indicate that the recombinant dammarenediol synthase protein could increase the production of dammarenediol and the expression of DS played a vital role in the biosynthesis of ginsenosides in P. ginseng.
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Wu Y, Zou H, Cheng H, Zhao C, Sun L, Su S, Li S, Yuan Y. Cloning and characterization of a β-amyrin synthase gene from the medicinal tree Aralia elata (Araliaceae). GENETICS AND MOLECULAR RESEARCH 2012; 11:2301-14. [DOI: 10.4238/2012.august.13.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Fukushima EO, Seki H, Ohyama K, Ono E, Umemoto N, Mizutani M, Saito K, Muranaka T. CYP716A subfamily members are multifunctional oxidases in triterpenoid biosynthesis. PLANT & CELL PHYSIOLOGY 2011; 52:2050-61. [PMID: 22039103 DOI: 10.1093/pcp/pcr146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
Triterpenoids are a diverse group of secondary metabolites that are associated with a variety of biological activities. Oleanolic acid, ursolic acid and betulinic acid are common triterpenoids in plants with diverse biological activities, including antifungal, antibacterial, anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and/or antitumor activities. In the present study, using the gene co-expression analysis tool of Medicago truncatula, we found a strong correlation between CYP716A12 and β-amyrin synthase (bAS), which encodes the enzyme responsible for the initial cyclization of 2,3-oxidosqualene to β-amyrin (the basic structural backbone of most triterpenoid saponins). Through an in vitro assay, we identified CYP716A12 as a β-amyrin 28-oxidase able to modify β-amyrin to oleanolic acid (through erythrodiol and, possibly, oleanolic aldehyde). We also confirmed its activity in vivo, by expressing CYP716A12 in transgenic yeast that endogenously produce β-amyrin. In addition, CYP716A12 was evaluated for its potential α-amyrin- and lupeol-oxidizing activities. Interestingly, CYP716A12 was able to generate ursolic acid (through uvaol and, possibly, ursolic aldehyde) and betulinic acid (through betulin). Hence, CYP716A12 was characterized as a multifunctional enzyme with β-amyrin 28-oxidase, α-amyrin 28-oxidase and lupeol 28-oxidase activities. We also identified homologs of CYP716A12 in grape (CYP716A15 and CYP716A17) that are involved in triterpenoid biosynthesis, which indicates the highly conserved functionality of the CYP716A subfamily among plants. These findings will be useful in the heterologous production of pharmacologically and industrially important triterpenoids, including oleanolic acid, ursolic acid and betulinic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ery O Fukushima
- Kihara Institute for Biological Research, Yokohama City University, Maioka-cho 641-12, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 244-0813 Japan
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Takagi K, Nishizawa K, Hirose A, Kita A, Ishimoto M. Manipulation of saponin biosynthesis by RNA interference-mediated silencing of β-amyrin synthase gene expression in soybean. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2011; 30:1835-46. [PMID: 21630021 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-011-1091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/18/2011] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Soybean seeds contain substantial amount of diverse triterpenoid saponins that influence the seed quality, although little is known about the physiologic functions of saponins in plants. We now describe the modification of saponin biosynthesis by RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated gene silencing targeted to β-amyrin synthase, a key enzyme in the synthesis of a common aglycon of soybean saponins. We identified two putative β-amyrin synthase genes in soybean that manifested distinct expression patterns with regard to developmental stage and tissue specificity. Given that one of these genes, GmBAS1, was expressed at a much higher level than the other (GmBAS2) in various tissues including the developing seeds, we constructed two RNAi vectors that encode self-complementary hairpin RNAs corresponding to the distinct regions of GmBAS1 under the control of a seed-specific promoter derived from the soybean gene for the α' subunit of the seed storage protein β-conglycinin. These vectors were introduced independently into soybean. Six independent transgenic lines exhibited a stable reduction in seed saponin content, with the extent of saponin deficiency correlating with the β-amyrin synthase mRNA depletion. Although some transgenic lines produced seeds almost devoid of saponins, no abnormality in their growth was apparent and the antioxidant activity of their seeds was similar to that of control seeds. These results suggest that saponins are not required for seed development and survival, and that soybean seeds may therefore be amenable to the modification of triterpenoid saponin content and composition through molecular biologic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoko Takagi
- National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, 2-1-2 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8602, Japan
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Carelli M, Biazzi E, Panara F, Tava A, Scaramelli L, Porceddu A, Graham N, Odoardi M, Piano E, Arcioni S, May S, Scotti C, Calderini O. Medicago truncatula CYP716A12 Is a Multifunctional Oxidase Involved in the Biosynthesis of Hemolytic Saponins. THE PLANT CELL 2011; 23:3070-81. [PMID: 21821776 PMCID: PMC3180811 DOI: 10.1105/tpc.111.087312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Saponins, a group of glycosidic compounds present in several plant species, have aglycone moieties that are formed using triterpenoid or steroidal skeletons. In spite of their importance as antimicrobial compounds and their possible benefits for human health, knowledge of the genetic control of saponin biosynthesis is still poorly understood. In the Medicago genus, the hemolytic activity of saponins is related to the nature of their aglycone moieties. We have identified a cytochrome P450 gene (CYP716A12) involved in saponin synthesis in Medicago truncatula using a combined genetic and biochemical approach. Genetic loss-of-function analysis and complementation studies showed that CYP716A12 is responsible for an early step in the saponin biosynthetic pathway. Mutants in CYP716A12 were unable to produce hemolytic saponins and only synthetized soyasaponins, and were thus named lacking hemolytic activity (lha). In vitro enzymatic activity assays indicate that CYP716A12 catalyzes the oxidation of β-amyrin and erythrodiol at the C-28 position, yielding oleanolic acid. Transcriptome changes in the lha mutant showed a modulation in the main steps of triterpenic saponin biosynthetic pathway: squalene cyclization, β-amyrin oxidation, and glycosylation. The analysis of CYP716A12 expression in planta is reported together with the sapogenin content in different tissues and stages. This article provides evidence for CYP716A12 being a key gene in hemolytic saponin biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carelli
- Consiglio per la Ricerca e la Sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Centro di Ricerca per le Produzioni Foraggere e Lattiero-Casearie, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Elisa Biazzi
- Consiglio per la Ricerca e la Sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Centro di Ricerca per le Produzioni Foraggere e Lattiero-Casearie, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Francesco Panara
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR)-Istituto di Genetica Vegetale (IGV), 06128 Perugia, Italy
| | - Aldo Tava
- Consiglio per la Ricerca e la Sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Centro di Ricerca per le Produzioni Foraggere e Lattiero-Casearie, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Laura Scaramelli
- Consiglio per la Ricerca e la Sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Centro di Ricerca per le Produzioni Foraggere e Lattiero-Casearie, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Andrea Porceddu
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR)-Istituto di Genetica Vegetale (IGV), 06128 Perugia, Italy
| | - Neil Graham
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - Miriam Odoardi
- Consiglio per la Ricerca e la Sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Centro di Ricerca per le Produzioni Foraggere e Lattiero-Casearie, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Efisio Piano
- Consiglio per la Ricerca e la Sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Centro di Ricerca per le Produzioni Foraggere e Lattiero-Casearie, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Sergio Arcioni
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR)-Istituto di Genetica Vegetale (IGV), 06128 Perugia, Italy
| | - Sean May
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - Carla Scotti
- Consiglio per la Ricerca e la Sperimentazione in Agricoltura, Centro di Ricerca per le Produzioni Foraggere e Lattiero-Casearie, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Ornella Calderini
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR)-Istituto di Genetica Vegetale (IGV), 06128 Perugia, Italy
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Brendolise C, Yauk YK, Eberhard ED, Wang M, Chagne D, Andre C, Greenwood DR, Beuning LL. An unusual plant triterpene synthase with predominant α-amyrin-producing activity identified by characterizing oxidosqualene cyclases from Malus × domestica. FEBS J 2011; 278:2485-99. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2011.08175.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Augustin JM, Kuzina V, Andersen SB, Bak S. Molecular activities, biosynthesis and evolution of triterpenoid saponins. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2011; 72:435-57. [PMID: 21333312 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2011.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 401] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2010] [Revised: 01/07/2011] [Accepted: 01/11/2011] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Saponins are bioactive compounds generally considered to be produced by plants to counteract pathogens and herbivores. Besides their role in plant defense, saponins are of growing interest for drug research as they are active constituents of several folk medicines and provide valuable pharmacological properties. Accordingly, much effort has been put into unraveling the modes of action of saponins, as well as in exploration of their potential for industrial processes and pharmacology. However, the exploitation of saponins for bioengineering crop plants with improved resistances against pests as well as circumvention of laborious and uneconomical extraction procedures for industrial production from plants is hampered by the lack of knowledge and availability of genes in saponin biosynthesis. Although the ability to produce saponins is rather widespread among plants, a complete synthetic pathway has not been elucidated in any single species. Current conceptions consider saponins to be derived from intermediates of the phytosterol pathway, and predominantly enzymes belonging to the multigene families of oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs), cytochromes P450 (P450s) and family 1 UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) are thought to be involved in their biosynthesis. Formation of unique structural features involves additional biosynthetical enzymes of diverse phylogenetic background. As an example of this, a serine carboxypeptidase-like acyltransferase (SCPL) was recently found to be involved in synthesis of triterpenoid saponins in oats. However, the total number of identified genes in saponin biosynthesis remains low as the complexity and diversity of these multigene families impede gene discovery based on sequence analysis and phylogeny. This review summarizes current knowledge of triterpenoid saponin biosynthesis in plants, molecular activities, evolutionary aspects and perspectives for further gene discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg M Augustin
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Center for Synthetic Biology, VKR Research Centre Pro-Active Plants, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Lambert E, Faizal A, Geelen D. Modulation of triterpene saponin production: in vitro cultures, elicitation, and metabolic engineering. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2011; 164:220-37. [PMID: 21267794 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-010-9129-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2010] [Accepted: 11/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Saponins are secondary metabolites that are widely distributed in the plant kingdom and are often the active components in medicinal herbs. Hence, saponins have a potential for the pharmaceutical industry as antibacterial, virucidal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-leishmanial drugs. However, their commercial application is often hindered because of practical problems, such as low and variable yields and limited availability of natural resources. In vitro cultures provide an alternative to avoid problems associated with field production; they offer a system in which plants are clonally propagated and yield is not affected by environmental changes. Additionally, treatment of in vitro cultures with elicitors such as methyl jasmonate may increase the production of saponins up to six times. In vitro cultures are amenable to metabolic engineering by targeting specific genes to enhance saponin production or drive production towards one specific class of saponins. Hitherto, this approach is not yet fully explored because only a limited number of saponin biosynthesis genes are identified. In this paper, we review recent studies on in vitro cultures of saponin-producing plants. The effect of elicitation on saponin production and saponin biosynthesis genes is discussed. Finally, recent research efforts on metabolic engineering of saponins will also be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Lambert
- Department of Plant Production, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, University of Ghent, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Delis C, Krokida A, Georgiou S, Peña-Rodríguez LM, Kavroulakis N, Ioannou E, Roussis V, Osbourn AE, Papadopoulou KK. Role of lupeol synthase in Lotus japonicus nodule formation. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2011; 189:335-46. [PMID: 20868395 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2010.03463.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
• Triterpenes are plant secondary metabolites, derived from the cyclization of 2,3-oxidosqualene by oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs). Here, we investigated the role of lupeol synthase, encoded by OSC3, and its product, lupeol, in developing roots and nodules of the model legume Lotus japonicus. • The expression patterns of OSC3 in different developmental stages of uninfected roots and in roots infected with Mesorhizobium loti were determined. The tissue specificity of OSC3 expression was analysed by in situ hybridization. Functional analysis, in which transgenic L. japonicus roots silenced for OSC3 were generated, was performed. The absence of lupeol in the silenced plant lines was determined by GC-MS. • The expression of ENOD40, a marker gene for nodule primordia initiation, was increased significantly in the OSC3-silenced plant lines, suggesting that lupeol influences nodule formation. Silenced plants also showed a more rapid nodulation phenotype, consistent with this. Exogenous application of lupeol to M. loti-infected wild-type plants provided further evidence for a negative regulatory effect of lupeol on the expression of ENOD40. • The synthesis of lupeol in L. japonicus roots and nodules can be solely attributed to OSC3. Taken together, our data suggest a role for lupeol biosynthesis in nodule formation through the regulation of ENOD40 gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costas Delis
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Wu TK, Chang YC, Liu YT, Chang CH, Wen HY, Li WH, Shie WS. Mutation of isoleucine 705 of the oxidosqualene-lanosterol cyclase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae affects lanosterol's C/D-ring cyclization and 17α/β-exocyclic side chain stereochemistry. Org Biomol Chem 2011; 9:1092-7. [DOI: 10.1039/c0ob00582g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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