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Wang F, Zang Z, Zhao Q, Xiaoyang C, Lei X, Wang Y, Ma Y, Cao R, Song X, Tang L, Deyholos MK, Zhang J. Advancement of Research Progress on Synthesis Mechanism of Cannabidiol (CBD). ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:2008-2018. [PMID: 38900848 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa L. is a multipurpose crop with high value for food, textiles, and other industries. Its secondary metabolites, including cannabidiol (CBD), have potential for broad application in medicine. With the CBD market expanding, traditional production may not be sufficient. Here we review the potential for the production of CBD using biotechnology. We describe the chemical and biological synthesis of cannabinoids, the associated enzymes, and the application of metabolic engineering, synthetic biology, and heterologous expression to increasing production of CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Wang
- Faculty of Agronomy, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Zhenyuan Zang
- Faculty of Agronomy, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Faculty of Agronomy, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Chunxiao Xiaoyang
- Faculty of Agronomy, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Xiujuan Lei
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Yingping Wang
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Yiqiao Ma
- Faculty of Agronomy, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Rongan Cao
- College of Food Science, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Xixia Song
- Institute of Industrial Crops of Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Haerbin 150000, China
| | - Lili Tang
- Institute of Industrial Crops of Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Haerbin 150000, China
| | - Michael K Deyholos
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia, Okanagan, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Jian Zhang
- Faculty of Agronomy, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia, Okanagan, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
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2
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Munakata R, Yazaki K. How did plants evolve the prenylation of specialized phenolic metabolites by means of UbiA prenyltransferases? CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 81:102601. [PMID: 38991464 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2024.102601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Prenylated phenolics occur in over 4000 species in the plant kingdom, most of which are known as specialized metabolites with high chemical diversity. Many of them have been identified as pharmacologically active compounds from various medicinal plants, in which prenyl residues play a key role in these activities. Prenyltransferases (PTs) responsible for their biosynthesis have been intensively studied in the last two decades. These enzymes are membrane-bound proteins belonging to the UbiA superfamily that occurs from bacteria to humans, and in particular those involved in plant specialized metabolism show strict specificities for both substrates and products. This article reviews the enzymatic features of plant UbiA PTs, including C- and O-prenylation, molecular evolution, and application of UbiA PTs in synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Munakata
- Laboratory of Plant Gene Expression, Research Institute for Sustainable Humanosphere, Kyoto University, Uji 611-0011, Japan
| | - Kazufumi Yazaki
- Laboratory of Plant Gene Expression, Research Institute for Sustainable Humanosphere, Kyoto University, Uji 611-0011, Japan.
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3
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Almhjell PJ, Johnston KE, Porter NJ, Kennemur JL, Bhethanabotla VC, Ducharme J, Arnold FH. The β-subunit of tryptophan synthase is a latent tyrosine synthase. Nat Chem Biol 2024:10.1038/s41589-024-01619-z. [PMID: 38744987 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01619-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Aromatic amino acids and their derivatives are diverse primary and secondary metabolites with critical roles in protein synthesis, cell structure and integrity, defense and signaling. All de novo aromatic amino acid production relies on a set of ancient and highly conserved chemistries. Here we introduce a new enzymatic transformation for L-tyrosine synthesis by demonstrating that the β-subunit of tryptophan synthase-which natively couples indole and L-serine to form L-tryptophan-can act as a latent 'tyrosine synthase'. A single substitution of a near-universally conserved catalytic residue unlocks activity toward simple phenol analogs and yields exclusive para carbon-carbon bond formation to furnish L-tyrosines. Structural and mechanistic studies show how a new active-site water molecule orients phenols for a nonnative mechanism of alkylation, with additional directed evolution resulting in a net >30,000-fold rate enhancement. This new biocatalyst can be used to efficiently prepare valuable L-tyrosine analogs at gram scales and provides the missing chemistry for a conceptually different pathway to L-tyrosine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Almhjell
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kadina E Johnston
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Merck & Co., Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas J Porter
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Codexis, Inc., Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer L Kennemur
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Vignesh C Bhethanabotla
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Julie Ducharme
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Quebec Government Office, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Frances H Arnold
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
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Mariyappan V, Munuswamy-Ramanujam G, Ramasamy M. Synthesis of novel rapanone derivatives via organocatalytic reductive C-alkylation: biological evaluation of antioxidant properties, in vivo zebrafish embryo toxicity, and docking studies. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:623-635. [PMID: 38389875 PMCID: PMC10880907 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00564j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
A biologically crucial natural product rapanone 1 was isolated from Embelia ribes at the gram scale with excellent purity. Semi-synthetic analogs of 1 semi-synthesized through reductive C-alkylation could increase the therapeutic value of the compounds. Herein, a new synthetic methodology was developed as a single-step reductive C-alkylation protocol using a metal-free, room-temperature-based reaction condition that can be scaled up to gram-scale synthesis with an excellent yield of up to 93%. A straightforward purification protocol was employed for the product obtained by this method. The derivatives of 1 showed antioxidant activity, which was evaluated using DPPH and ABTS scavenging assays. Compounds 5a-5ze showed an IC50 value of 2.48-3.37 μM and 1.81-3.12 μM. Substitution by electron-donating groups on the quinone moiety seems to play an essential role in the increased antioxidant activity of compounds 5a-5i, 5v, 5w, 5zc, and 5z. Further, the in vivo embryotoxicity of 1 and its derivatives was analyzed in a zebrafish-based aquatic toxicology model. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to 1 and 5a-5ze at 20 to 160 μM concentrations. They showed reduced toxicity and a survival rate of 90-98% after 96 hpf of treatment; similarly, the compounds 5a-5i, 5v, 5w, 5zc, and 5zd did not significantly affect the hatching rates of 75.66-85.33% or developmental abnormalities of the embryos after 48 hpf of treatment. In silico molecular docking studies for the parent compound, along with its derivatives 5a-5i, 5v-5w, 5zc-5zd, and standard l-ascorbic acid (l-Aa) indicated favorable interactions with the active site of the crystal structure, coupled with the assay protein PDB:1ZB6, which was responsible for the observed biological understanding and potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaithiyalingam Mariyappan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology SRM-Nagar Kattankulathur - 603 203 Chengalpattu District Tamil Nadu India https://srmist.irins.org/profile/307007
| | - Ganesh Munuswamy-Ramanujam
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology SRM-Nagar Kattankulathur - 603 203 Chengalpattu District Tamil Nadu India https://srmist.irins.org/profile/307007
- Interdisciplinary Institute of Indian System of Medicine (IIISM), SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM Nagar Kattankulathur - 603 203 Chengalpattu District Tamil Nadu India
| | - Mohankumar Ramasamy
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology SRM-Nagar Kattankulathur - 603 203 Chengalpattu District Tamil Nadu India https://srmist.irins.org/profile/307007
- Interdisciplinary Institute of Indian System of Medicine (IIISM), SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SRM Nagar Kattankulathur - 603 203 Chengalpattu District Tamil Nadu India
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Schmidt C, Aras M, Kayser O. Engineering cannabinoid production in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2300507. [PMID: 38403455 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Phytocannabinoids are natural products with highly interesting pharmacological properties mainly produced by plants. The production of cannabinoids in a heterologous host system has gained interest in recent years as a promising alternative to production from plant material. However, the systems reported so far do not achieve industrially relevant titers, highlighting the need for alternative systems. Here, we show the production of the cannabinoids cannabigerolic acid and cannabigerol from glucose and hexanoic acid in a heterologous yeast system using the aromatic prenyltransferase NphB from Streptomyces sp. strain CL190. The production was significantly increased by introducing a fusion protein consisting of ERG20WW and NphB. Furthermore, we improved the production of the precursor olivetolic acid to a titer of 56 mg L-1 . The implementation of the cannabinoid synthase genes enabled the production of Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, cannabidiolic acid as well as cannabichromenic acid, where the heterologous biosynthesis of cannabichromenic acid in a yeast system was demonstrated for the first time. In addition, we found that the product spectrum of the cannabinoid synthases localized to the vacuoles of the yeast cells was highly dependent on extracellular pH, allowing for easy manipulation. Finally, using a fed-batch approach, we showed cannabigerolic acid and olivetolic acid titers of up to 18.2 mg L-1 and 117 mg L-1 , respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Schmidt
- Technical Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Marco Aras
- Technical Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Oliver Kayser
- Technical Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
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Awwad F, Fantino EI, Héneault M, Diaz-Garza AM, Merindol N, Custeau A, Gélinas SE, Meddeb-Mouelhi F, Li J, Lemay JF, Karas BJ, Desgagne-Penix I. Bioengineering of the Marine Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum with Cannabis Genes Enables the Production of the Cannabinoid Precursor, Olivetolic Acid. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16624. [PMID: 38068947 PMCID: PMC10706280 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing demand for novel natural compounds has prompted the exploration of innovative approaches in bioengineering. This study investigates the bioengineering potential of the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum through the introduction of cannabis genes, specifically, tetraketide synthase (TKS), and olivetolic acid cyclase (OAC), for the production of the cannabinoid precursor, olivetolic acid (OA). P. tricornutum is a promising biotechnological platform due to its fast growth rate, amenability to genetic manipulation, and ability to produce valuable compounds. Through genetic engineering techniques, we successfully integrated the cannabis genes TKS and OAC into the diatom. P. tricornutum transconjugants expressing these genes showed the production of the recombinant TKS and OAC enzymes, detected via Western blot analysis, and the production of cannabinoids precursor (OA) detected using the HPLC/UV spectrum when compared to the wild-type strain. Quantitative analysis revealed significant olivetolic acid accumulation (0.6-2.6 mg/L), demonstrating the successful integration and functionality of the heterologous genes. Furthermore, the introduction of TKS and OAC genes led to the synthesis of novel molecules, potentially expanding the repertoire of bioactive compounds accessible through diatom-based biotechnology. This study demonstrates the successful bioengineering of P. tricornutum with cannabis genes, enabling the production of OA as a precursor for cannabinoid production and the synthesis of novel molecules with potential pharmaceutical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Awwad
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Elisa Ines Fantino
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Marianne Héneault
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Aracely Maribel Diaz-Garza
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Natacha Merindol
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Biologie Végétale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Alexandre Custeau
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Sarah-Eve Gélinas
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Fatma Meddeb-Mouelhi
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Biologie Végétale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Jessica Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Jean-François Lemay
- Centre National en Électrochimie et en Technologies Environnementales Inc., 2263 Avenue du Collège, Shawinigan, QC G9N 6V8, Canada
| | - Bogumil J. Karas
- Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Isabel Desgagne-Penix
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Boulevard des Forges, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Biologie Végétale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Riviere, QC G9A 5H7, Canada
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Spitzer S, Wloka J, Pietruszka J, Kayser O. Generation of Cannabigerolic Acid Derivatives and Their Precursors by Using the Promiscuity of the Aromatic Prenyltransferase NphB. Chembiochem 2023; 24:e202300441. [PMID: 37690998 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
NphB is an aromatic prenyltransferase with high promiscuity for phenolics including flavonoids, isoflavonoids, and plant polyketides. It has been demonstrated that cannabigerolic acid is successfully formed by the reaction catalysed by NphB using geranyl diphosphate and olivetolic acid as substrates. In this study, the substrate specificity of NphB was further determined by using olivetolic acid derivatives as potential substrates for the formation of new synthetic cannabinoids. The derivatives differ in the hydrocarbon chain attached to C6 of the core structure. We performed in silico experiments, including docking of olivetolic acid derivatives, to identify differences in their binding modes. Substrate acceptance was predicted. Based on these results, a library of olivetolic acid derivatives was constructed and synthesized by using different organic synthetic routes. Conversion was monitored in in vitro assays with purified NphB versions. For the substrates leading to a high conversion olivetolic acid-C8, olivetolic acid-C2 and 2-benzyl-4,6-dihydroxybenzoic acid, the products were further elucidated and identified as cannbigerolic acid derivatives. Therefore, these substrates show potential to be adapted in cannabinoid biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Spitzer
- Technical Biochemistry Laboratory, Technical University Dortmund, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Jasmin Wloka
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 52426, Jülich, Germany
| | - Jörg Pietruszka
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, 52426, Jülich, Germany
| | - Oliver Kayser
- Technical Biochemistry Laboratory, Technical University Dortmund, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
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Gardner ED, Johnson BP, Dimas DA, McClurg HE, Severance ZC, Burgett AW, Singh S. Unlocking New Prenylation Modes: Azaindoles as a New Substrate Class for Indole Prenyltransferases. ChemCatChem 2023; 15:e202300650. [PMID: 37954549 PMCID: PMC10634513 DOI: 10.1002/cctc.202300650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Aza-substitution, the replacement of aromatic CH groups with nitrogen atoms, is an established medicinal chemistry strategy for increasing solubility, but current methods of accessing functionalized azaindoles are limited. In this work, indole-alkylating aromatic prenyltransferases (PTs) were explored as a strategy to directly functionalize azaindole-substituted analogs of natural products. For this, a series of aza-l-tryptophans (Aza-Trp) featuring N-substitution of every aromatic CH position of the indole ring and their corresponding cyclic Aza-l-Trp-l-proline dipeptides (Aza-CyWP), were synthesized as substrate mimetics for the indole-alkylating PTs FgaPT2, CdpNPT, and FtmPT1. We then demonstrated most of these substrate analogs were accepted by a PT, and the regioselectivity of each prenylation was heavily influenced by the position of the N-substitution. Remarkably, FgaPT2 was found to produce cationic N-prenylpyridinium products, representing not only a new substrate class for indole PTs but also a previously unobserved prenylation mode. The discovery that nitrogenous indole bioisosteres can be accepted by PTs thus provides access to previously unavailable chemical space in the search for bioactive indolediketopiperazine analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric D. Gardner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
| | - Bryce P. Johnson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
| | - Dustin A. Dimas
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
| | - Heather E. McClurg
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
| | - Zachary C. Severance
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73117, United States
| | - Anthony W. Burgett
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73117, United States
| | - Shanteri Singh
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States
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Martin A, Dierlamm N, Zocher G, Li SM. A basidomycetous hydroxynaphthalene-prenylating enzyme exhibits promiscuity toward prenyl donors. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s00253-023-12621-1. [PMID: 37326682 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12621-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The fungal prenyltransferase ShPT from Stereum hirsutum was believed to prenylate 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol and thereby be involved in the vibralactone biosynthesis. In this study, we demonstrate that hydroxynaphthalenes instead of benzyl alcohol or aldehyde were accepted by ShPT for regular C-prenylation in the presence of both dimethylallyl and geranyl diphosphate. Although the natural substrate of ShPT remains unknown, our results provide one additional prenyltransferase from basidiomycetes, which are less studied, in comparison to those from other sources. Furthermore, this study expands the chemical toolbox for regioselective production of prenylated naphthalene derivatives. KEY POINTS: •Basidiomycetous prenyltransferase •Biochemical characterization •A DMATS prenyltransferase prenylating hydroxynaphthalene derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Martin
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Fachbereich Pharmazie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Robert-Koch Straße 4, 35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Nele Dierlamm
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry (IFIB), University of Tübingen, Auf Der Morgenstelle 34, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Georg Zocher
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry (IFIB), University of Tübingen, Auf Der Morgenstelle 34, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Shu-Ming Li
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Fachbereich Pharmazie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Robert-Koch Straße 4, 35037, Marburg, Germany.
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Tan Z, Li J, Hou J, Gonzalez R. Designing artificial pathways for improving chemical production. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 64:108119. [PMID: 36764336 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic engineering exploits manipulation of catalytic and regulatory elements to improve a specific function of the host cell, often the synthesis of interesting chemicals. Although naturally occurring pathways are significant resources for metabolic engineering, these pathways are frequently inefficient and suffer from a series of inherent drawbacks. Designing artificial pathways in a rational manner provides a promising alternative for chemicals production. However, the entry barrier of designing artificial pathway is relatively high, which requires researchers a comprehensive and deep understanding of physical, chemical and biological principles. On the other hand, the designed artificial pathways frequently suffer from low efficiencies, which impair their further applications in host cells. Here, we illustrate the concept and basic workflow of retrobiosynthesis in designing artificial pathways, as well as the most currently used methods including the knowledge- and computer-based approaches. Then, we discuss how to obtain desired enzymes for novel biochemistries, and how to trim the initially designed artificial pathways for further improving their functionalities. Finally, we summarize the current applications of artificial pathways from feedstocks utilization to various products synthesis, as well as our future perspectives on designing artificial pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaigao Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Bioengineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Department of Bioengineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ramon Gonzalez
- Department of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
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Colombano A, Dalponte L, Dall'Angelo S, Clemente C, Idress M, Ghazal A, Houssen WE. Chemoenzymatic Late-Stage Modifications Enable Downstream Click-Mediated Fluorescent Tagging of Peptides. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202215979. [PMID: 36815722 PMCID: PMC10946513 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202215979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Aromatic prenyltransferases from cyanobactin biosynthetic pathways catalyse the chemoselective and regioselective intramolecular transfer of prenyl/geranyl groups from isoprene donors to an electron-rich position in these macrocyclic and linear peptides. These enzymes often demonstrate relaxed substrate specificity and are considered useful biocatalysts for structural diversification of peptides. Herein, we assess the isoprene donor specificity of the N1-tryptophan prenyltransferase AcyF from the anacyclamide A8P pathway using a library of 22 synthetic alkyl pyrophosphate analogues, of which many display reactive groups that are amenable to additional functionalization. We further used AcyF to introduce a reactive moiety into a tryptophan-containing cyclic peptide and subsequently used click chemistry to fluorescently label the enzymatically modified peptide. This chemoenzymatic strategy allows late-stage modification of peptides and is useful for many applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Colombano
- Institute of Medical SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Ashgrove Road WestAberdeenAB25 2ZDUK
| | - Luca Dalponte
- Institute of Medical SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Ashgrove Road WestAberdeenAB25 2ZDUK
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of AberdeenAberdeenAB24 3UEUK
| | - Sergio Dall'Angelo
- Institute of Medical SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Ashgrove Road WestAberdeenAB25 2ZDUK
| | - Claudia Clemente
- Institute of Medical SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Ashgrove Road WestAberdeenAB25 2ZDUK
| | - Mohannad Idress
- Institute of Medical SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Ashgrove Road WestAberdeenAB25 2ZDUK
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of AberdeenAberdeenAB24 3UEUK
- Abzena, Babraham Research CampusCambridgeUK
| | - Ahmad Ghazal
- Institute of Medical SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Ashgrove Road WestAberdeenAB25 2ZDUK
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of AberdeenAberdeenAB24 3UEUK
| | - Wael E. Houssen
- Institute of Medical SciencesUniversity of Aberdeen Ashgrove Road WestAberdeenAB25 2ZDUK
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of AberdeenAberdeenAB24 3UEUK
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12
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Zhang Y, Goto Y, Suga H. Discovery, biochemical characterization, and bioengineering of cyanobactin prenyltransferases. Trends Biochem Sci 2023; 48:360-374. [PMID: 36564250 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Prenylation is a post-translational modification (PTM) widely found in primary and secondary metabolism. This modification can enhance the lipophilicity of molecules, enabling them to interact with lipid membranes more effectively. The prenylation of peptides is often carried out by cyanobactin prenyltransferases (PTases) from cyanobacteria. These enzymes are of interest due to their ability to add prenyl groups to unmodified peptides, thus making them more effective therapeutics through the subsequent acquisition of increased membrane permeability and bioavailability. Herein we review the current knowledge of cyanobactin PTases, focusing on their discovery, biochemistry, and bioengineering, and highlight the potential application of them as peptide alkylation biocatalysts to generate peptide therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yuki Goto
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Hiroaki Suga
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
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13
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An T, Feng X, Li C. Prenylation: A Critical Step for Biomanufacturing of Prenylated Aromatic Natural Products. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:2211-2233. [PMID: 36716399 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c07287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Prenylated aromatic natural products (PANPs) have received much attention due to their biomedical benefits for human health. The prenylation of aromatic natural products (ANPs), which is mainly catalyzed by aromatic prenyltransferases (aPTs), contributes significantly to their structural and functional diversity by providing higher lipophilicity and enhanced bioactivity. aPTs are widely distributed in bacteria, fungi, animals, and plants and play a key role in the regiospecific prenylation of ANPs. Recent studies have greatly advanced our understanding of the characteristics and application of aPTs. In this review, we comment on research progress regarding sources, evolutionary relationships, structural features, reaction mechanism, engineering modification, and application of aPTs. Particular emphasis is also placed on recent advances, challenges, and prospects about applications of aPTs in microbial cell factories for producing PANPs. Generally, this review could provide guidance for using aPTs as robust biocatalytic tools to produce various PANPs with high efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting An
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xudong Feng
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Chun Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Key Lab for Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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14
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Wu D, Lei X. Enzymatic cascade reactions for the efficient synthesis of natural products. Tetrahedron 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tet.2022.133099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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15
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Kelly SP, Shende VV, Flynn AR, Dan Q, Ye Y, Smith JL, Tsukamoto S, Sigman MS, Sherman DH. Data Science-Driven Analysis of Substrate-Permissive Diketopiperazine Reverse Prenyltransferase NotF: Applications in Protein Engineering and Cascade Biocatalytic Synthesis of (-)-Eurotiumin A. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:19326-19336. [PMID: 36223664 PMCID: PMC9831672 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c06631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Prenyltransfer is an early-stage carbon-hydrogen bond (C-H) functionalization prevalent in the biosynthesis of a diverse array of biologically active bacterial, fungal, plant, and metazoan diketopiperazine (DKP) alkaloids. Toward the development of a unified strategy for biocatalytic construction of prenylated DKP indole alkaloids, we sought to identify and characterize a substrate-permissive C2 reverse prenyltransferase (PT). As the first tailoring event within the biosynthesis of cytotoxic notoamide metabolites, PT NotF catalyzes C2 reverse prenyltransfer of brevianamide F. Solving a crystal structure of NotF (in complex with native substrate and prenyl donor mimic dimethylallyl S-thiolodiphosphate (DMSPP)) revealed a large, solvent-exposed active site, intimating NotF may possess a significantly broad substrate scope. To assess the substrate selectivity of NotF, we synthesized a panel of 30 sterically and electronically differentiated tryptophanyl DKPs, the majority of which were selectively prenylated by NotF in synthetically useful conversions (2 to >99%). Quantitative representation of this substrate library and development of a descriptive statistical model provided insight into the molecular origins of NotF's substrate promiscuity. This approach enabled the identification of key substrate descriptors (electrophilicity, size, and flexibility) that govern the rate of NotF-catalyzed prenyltransfer, and the development of an "induced fit docking (IFD)-guided" engineering strategy for improved turnover of our largest substrates. We further demonstrated the utility of NotF in tandem with oxidative cyclization using flavin monooxygenase, BvnB. This one-pot, in vitro biocatalytic cascade enabled the first chemoenzymatic synthesis of the marine fungal natural product, (-)-eurotiumin A, in three steps and 60% overall yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha P. Kelly
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Program in Chemical Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,These authors contributed equally: Samantha P. Kelly, Vikram V. Shende
| | - Vikram V. Shende
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Program in Chemical Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,These authors contributed equally: Samantha P. Kelly, Vikram V. Shende
| | - Autumn R. Flynn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Qingyun Dan
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ying Ye
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Janet L. Smith
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sachiko Tsukamoto
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 5-1 Oe-honmachi, Kumamoto 862-0973, Japan
| | - Matthew S. Sigman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - David H. Sherman
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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16
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Eaton SA, Ronnebaum TA, Roose BW, Christianson DW. Structural Basis of Substrate Promiscuity and Catalysis by the Reverse Prenyltransferase N-Dimethylallyl-l-tryptophan Synthase from Fusarium fujikuroi. Biochemistry 2022; 61:2025-2035. [PMID: 36084241 PMCID: PMC9648991 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.2c00350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The regiospecific prenylation of an aromatic amino acid catalyzed by a dimethylallyl-l-tryptophan synthase (DMATS) is a key step in the biosynthesis of many fungal and bacterial natural products. DMATS enzymes share a common "ABBA" fold with divergent active site contours that direct alternative C-C, C-N, and C-O bond-forming trajectories. DMATS1 from Fusarium fujikuroi catalyzes the reverse N-prenylation of l-Trp by generating an allylic carbocation from dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP) that then alkylates the indole nitrogen of l-Trp. DMATS1 stands out among the greater DMATS family because it exhibits unusually broad substrate specificity: it can utilize geranyl diphosphate (GPP) or l-Tyr as an alternative prenyl donor or acceptor, respectively; it can catalyze both forward and reverse prenylation, i.e., at C1 or C3 of DMAPP; and it can catalyze C-N and C-O bond-forming reactions. Here, we report the crystal structures of DMATS1 and its complexes with l-Trp or l-Tyr and unreactive thiolodiphosphate analogues of the prenyl donors DMAPP and GPP. Structures of ternary complexes mimic Michaelis complexes with actual substrates and illuminate active site features that govern prenylation regiochemistry. Comparison with CymD, a bacterial enzyme that catalyzes the reverse N-prenylation of l-Trp with DMAPP, indicates that bacterial and fungal DMATS enzymes share a conserved reaction mechanism. However, the narrower active site contour of CymD enforces narrower substrate specificity. Structure-function relationships established for DMATS enzymes will ultimately inform protein engineering experiments that will broaden the utility of these enzymes as useful tools for synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A. Eaton
- Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Trey A. Ronnebaum
- Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Benjamin W. Roose
- Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - David W. Christianson
- Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
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17
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LimF is a versatile prenyltransferase for histidine-C-geranylation on diverse non-natural substrates. Nat Catal 2022. [DOI: 10.1038/s41929-022-00822-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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18
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Tsutsumi H, Urano N, Katsuyama Y, Ohnishi Y. Enzymatic synthesis of non-natural flavonoids by combining geranyl pyrophosphate C6-methyltransferase and aromatic prenyltransferase. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2022; 86:1270-1275. [PMID: 35767877 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbac099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Terpenoids are the largest class of natural products and are derived from C5 isoprene units. Recent discoveries of modification enzymes in native isoprene units before cyclization or transfer reactions have revealed that C5 units with additional carbon atoms are also used to produce terpenoids. These reports indicate that the utilization of these modification enzymes is useful for the enzymatic production of non-natural terpenoids. In this study, we have attempted to produce methylgeranyl polyphenols, which are not observed in nature, by combining a geranyl pyrophosphate C6 methyltransferase, BezA, which was discovered from the benzastatin biosynthetic pathway, and the promiscuous prenyltransferase NphB, which catalyzes prenylation of various flavonoids. We successfully synthesized five methylgeranylated flavonoids from naringenin, apigenin, and genistein. This result demonstrates that BezA is a powerful tool for the synthesis of novel non-natural terpenoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayama Tsutsumi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Naoki Urano
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yohei Katsuyama
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuo Ohnishi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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19
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Nagata R, Suemune H, Kobayashi M, Shinada T, Shin‐ya K, Nishiyama M, Hino T, Sato Y, Kuzuyama T, Nagano S. Structural Basis for the Prenylation Reaction of Carbazole‐Containing Natural Products Catalyzed by Squalene Synthase‐Like Enzymes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202117430. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202117430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryuhei Nagata
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Hironori Suemune
- Graduate School of Engineering Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
| | - Masaya Kobayashi
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Tetsuro Shinada
- Graduate School of Science Osaka City University Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-ku Osaka 558-8585 Japan
| | - Kazuo Shin‐ya
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology 2-4-7 Aomi, Koto-ku Tokyo 135-0064 Japan
| | - Makoto Nishiyama
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology (CRIIM) The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Tomoya Hino
- Graduate School of Engineering Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
- Center for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
| | - Yusuke Sato
- Graduate School of Engineering Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
- Center for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
| | - Tomohisa Kuzuyama
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology (CRIIM) The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Shingo Nagano
- Graduate School of Engineering Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
- Center for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
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20
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Zheng Y, Cong Y, Schmidt EW, Nair SK. Catalysts for the Enzymatic Lipidation of Peptides. Acc Chem Res 2022; 55:1313-1323. [PMID: 35442036 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.2c00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Biologically active peptides are a major growing class of drugs, but their therapeutic potential is constrained by several limitations including bioavailability and poor pharmacokinetics. The attachment of functional groups like lipids has proven to be a robust and effective strategy for improving their therapeutic potential. Biochemical and bioactivity-guided screening efforts have identified the cyanobactins as a large class of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) that are modified with lipids. These lipids are attached by the F superfamily of peptide prenyltransferase enzymes that utilize 5-carbon (prenylation) or 10-carbon (geranylation) donors. The chemical structures of various cyanobactins initially showed isoprenoid attachments on Ser, Thr, or Tyr. Biochemical characterization of the F prenyltransferases from the corresponding clusters shows that the different enzymes have different acceptor residue specificities but are otherwise remarkably sequence tolerant. Hence, these enzymes are well suited for biotechnological applications. The crystal structure of the Tyr O-prenyltransferase PagF reveals that the F enzyme shares a domain architecture reminiscent of a canonical ABBA prenyltransferase fold but lacks secondary structural elements necessary to form an enclosed active site. Binding of either cyclic or linear peptides is sufficient to close the active site to allow for productive catalysis, explaining why these enzymes cannot use isolated amino acids as substrates.Almost all characterized isoprenylated cyanobactins are modified with 5-carbon isoprenoids. However, chemical characterization demonstrates that the piricyclamides are modified with a 10-carbon geranyl moiety, and in vitro reconstitution of the corresponding PirF shows that the enzyme is a geranyltransferase. Structural analysis of PirF shows an active site nearly identical with that of the PagF prenyltransferase but with a single amino acid substitution. Of note, mutation at this residue in PagF or PirF can completely switch the isoprenoid donor specificity of these enzymes. Recent efforts have resulted in significant expansion of the F family with enzymes identified that can carry out C-prenylations of Trp, N-prenylations of Trp, and bis-N-prenylations of Arg. Additional genome-guided efforts based on the sequence of F enzymes identify linear cyanobactins that are α-N-prenylated and α-C-methylated by a bifunctional prenyltransferase/methyltransferase fusion and a bis-α-N- and α-C-prenylated linear peptide. The discovery of these different classes of prenyltransferases with diverse acceptor residue specificities expands the biosynthetic toolkit for enzymatic prenylation of peptide substrates.In this Account, we review the current knowledge scope of the F family of peptide prenyltransferases, focusing on the biochemical, structure-function, and chemical characterization studies that have been carried out in our laboratories. These enzymes are easily amenable for diversity-oriented synthetic efforts as they can accommodate substrate peptides of diverse sequences and are thus attractive catalysts for use in synthetic biology approaches to generate high-value peptidic therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwu Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Ying Cong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Eric W. Schmidt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Satish K. Nair
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Center for Biophysics and Computational Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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21
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Ultrasound-assisted synthesis, photophysical behaviour and single crystal X-ray analysis of highly functionalized prenylarenes. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.132544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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22
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Lim KJH, Hartono YD, Xue B, Go MK, Fan H, Yew WS. Structure-Guided Engineering of Prenyltransferase NphB for High-Yield and Regioselective Cannabinoid Production. ACS Catal 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.2c00786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Jie Han Lim
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671
| | - Yossa Dwi Hartono
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671
| | - Bo Xue
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597
| | - Maybelle Kho Go
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597
| | - Hao Fan
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671
| | - Wen Shan Yew
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597
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23
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Nagata R, Suemune H, Kobayashi M, Shinada T, Shin‐ya K, Nishiyama M, Hino T, Sato Y, Kuzuyama T, Nagano S. Structural Basis for the Prenylation Reaction of Carbazole‐Containing Natural Products Catalyzed by Squalene Synthase‐Like Enzymes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202117430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryuhei Nagata
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Hironori Suemune
- Graduate School of Engineering Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
| | - Masaya Kobayashi
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Tetsuro Shinada
- Graduate School of Science Osaka City University Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-ku Osaka 558-8585 Japan
| | - Kazuo Shin‐ya
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology 2-4-7 Aomi, Koto-ku Tokyo 135-0064 Japan
| | - Makoto Nishiyama
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology (CRIIM) The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Tomoya Hino
- Graduate School of Engineering Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
- Center for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
| | - Yusuke Sato
- Graduate School of Engineering Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
- Center for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
| | - Tomohisa Kuzuyama
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology (CRIIM) The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Shingo Nagano
- Graduate School of Engineering Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
- Center for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry Tottori University 4-101 Koyama-cho Minami Tottori 680-8552 Japan
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24
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Suemune H, Nishimura D, Mizutani K, Sato Y, Hino T, Takagi H, Shiozaki-Sato Y, Takahashi S, Nagano S. Crystal structures of a 6-dimethylallyltryptophan synthase, IptA: Insights into substrate tolerance and enhancement of prenyltransferase activity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 593:144-150. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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25
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Tsutsumi H, Moriwaki Y, Terada T, Shimizu K, Shin‐ya K, Katsuyama Y, Ohnishi Y. Structural and Molecular Basis of the Catalytic Mechanism of Geranyl Pyrophosphate C6‐Methyltransferase: Creation of an Unprecedented Farnesyl Pyrophosphate C6‐Methyltransferase. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202111217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hayama Tsutsumi
- Department of Biotechnology Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Moriwaki
- Department of Biotechnology Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Tohru Terada
- Department of Biotechnology Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Kentaro Shimizu
- Department of Biotechnology Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Kazuo Shin‐ya
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) 2-4-7 Aomi, Koto-ku Tokyo 135-0064 Japan
- Technology Research Association for Next Generation Natural Products Chemistry 2-4-32 Aomi, Koto-ku Tokyo 135-0064 Japan
| | - Yohei Katsuyama
- Department of Biotechnology Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Yasuo Ohnishi
- Department of Biotechnology Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657 Japan
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
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26
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Liu J, Yang Y, Harken L, Li SM. Elucidation of the Streptoazine Biosynthetic Pathway in Streptomyces aurantiacus Reveals the Presence of a Promiscuous Prenyltransferase/Cyclase. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2021; 84:3100-3109. [PMID: 34846144 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.1c00844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Heterologous expression of a three-gene cluster from Streptomyces aurantiacus coding for a cyclodipeptide synthase, a prenyltransferase, and a methyltransferase led to the elucidation of the biosynthetic steps of streptoazine C (2). In vivo biotransformation experiments proved the high flexibility of the prenyltransferase SasB toward tryptophan-containing cyclodipeptides for regular C-3-prenylation. Furthermore, their corresponding dehydrogenated derivatives prepared by using cyclodipeptide oxidases were also used for prenylation. This study provides an enzyme with high substrate promiscuity from a less explored group of prenyltransferases for potential use to generate prenylated derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Fachbereich Pharmazie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Robert-Koch Straße 4, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Yiling Yang
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Fachbereich Pharmazie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Robert-Koch Straße 4, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Lauritz Harken
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Fachbereich Pharmazie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Robert-Koch Straße 4, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Shu-Ming Li
- Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie und Biotechnologie, Fachbereich Pharmazie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Robert-Koch Straße 4, 35037 Marburg, Germany
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27
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Berger M, Carboni D, Melchiorre P. Photochemical Organocatalytic Regio- and Enantioselective Conjugate Addition of Allyl Groups to Enals. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:26373-26377. [PMID: 34695283 PMCID: PMC9298816 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202111648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We report the first catalytic enantioselective conjugate addition of allyl groups to α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes. The chemistry exploits the visible‐light‐excitation of chiral iminium ions to activate allyl silanes towards the formation of allylic radicals, which are then intercepted stereoselectively. The underlying radical mechanism of this process overcomes the poor regio‐ and chemoselectivity that traditionally affects the conjugate allylation of enals proceeding via polar pathways. We also demonstrate how this organocatalytic strategy could selectively install a valuable prenyl fragment at the β‐carbon of enals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Berger
- ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Avenida Països Catalans 16, 43007, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Davide Carboni
- ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Avenida Països Catalans 16, 43007, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Paolo Melchiorre
- ICREA-Passeig Lluís Companys 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain.,ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Avenida Països Catalans 16, 43007, Tarragona, Spain
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28
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Berger M, Carboni D, Melchiorre P. Photochemical Organocatalytic Regio‐ and Enantioselective Conjugate Addition of Allyl Groups to Enals. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202111648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Berger
- ICIQ—Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology Avenida Països Catalans 16 43007 Tarragona Spain
| | - Davide Carboni
- ICIQ—Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology Avenida Països Catalans 16 43007 Tarragona Spain
| | - Paolo Melchiorre
- ICREA—Passeig Lluís Companys 23 08010 Barcelona Spain
- ICIQ—Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology Avenida Països Catalans 16 43007 Tarragona Spain
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29
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Tsutsumi H, Moriwaki Y, Terada T, Shimizu K, Shin-Ya K, Katsuyama Y, Ohnishi Y. Structural and Molecular Basis of the Catalytic Mechanism of Geranyl Pyrophosphate C6-Methyltransferase: Creation of an Unprecedented Farnesyl Pyrophosphate C6-Methyltransferase. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 61:e202111217. [PMID: 34626048 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202111217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Prenyl pyrophosphate methyltransferases enhance the structural diversity of terpenoids. However, the molecular basis of their catalytic mechanisms is poorly understood. In this study, using multiple strategies, we characterized a geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP) C6-methyltransferase, BezA. Biochemical analysis revealed that BezA requires Mg2+ and solely methylates GPP. The crystal structures of BezA and its complex with S-adenosyl homocysteine were solved at 2.10 and 2.56 Å, respectively. Further analyses using site-directed mutagenesis, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics calculations revealed the molecular basis of the methylation reaction. Importantly, the function of E170 as a catalytic base to complete the methylation reaction was established. We also succeeded in switching the substrate specificity by introducing a W210A substitution, resulting in an unprecedented farnesyl pyrophosphate C6-methyltransferase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayama Tsutsumi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Moriwaki
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tohru Terada
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kentaro Shimizu
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuo Shin-Ya
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 2-4-7 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-0064, Japan.,Technology Research Association for Next Generation Natural Products Chemistry, 2-4-32 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-0064, Japan
| | - Yohei Katsuyama
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuo Ohnishi
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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30
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Galanie S, Entwistle D, Lalonde J. Engineering biosynthetic enzymes for industrial natural product synthesis. Nat Prod Rep 2021; 37:1122-1143. [PMID: 32364202 DOI: 10.1039/c9np00071b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Covering: 2000 to 2020 Natural products and their derivatives are commercially important medicines, agrochemicals, flavors, fragrances, and food ingredients. Industrial strategies to produce these structurally complex molecules encompass varied combinations of chemical synthesis, biocatalysis, and extraction from natural sources. Interest in engineering natural product biosynthesis began with the advent of genetic tools for pathway discovery. Genes and strains can now readily be synthesized, mutated, recombined, and sequenced. Enzyme engineering has succeeded commercially due to the development of genetic methods, analytical technologies, and machine learning algorithms. Today, engineered biosynthetic enzymes from organisms spanning the tree of life are used industrially to produce diverse molecules. These biocatalytic processes include single enzymatic steps, multienzyme cascades, and engineered native and heterologous microbial strains. This review will describe how biosynthetic enzymes have been engineered to enable commercial and near-commercial syntheses of natural products and their analogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Galanie
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA.
| | - David Entwistle
- Process Chemistry, Codexis, Inc., Redwood City, California, USA
| | - James Lalonde
- Microbial Digital Genome Engineering, Inscripta, Inc., Pleasanton, California, USA
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31
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Jamieson CS, Misa J, Tang Y, Billingsley JM. Biosynthesis and synthetic biology of psychoactive natural products. Chem Soc Rev 2021; 50:6950-7008. [PMID: 33908526 PMCID: PMC8217322 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs00065a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Psychoactive natural products play an integral role in the modern world. The tremendous structural complexity displayed by such molecules confers diverse biological activities of significant medicinal value and sociocultural impact. Accordingly, in the last two centuries, immense effort has been devoted towards establishing how plants, animals, and fungi synthesize complex natural products from simple metabolic precursors. The recent explosion of genomics data and molecular biology tools has enabled the identification of genes encoding proteins that catalyze individual biosynthetic steps. Once fully elucidated, the "biosynthetic pathways" are often comparable to organic syntheses in elegance and yield. Additionally, the discovery of biosynthetic enzymes provides powerful catalysts which may be repurposed for synthetic biology applications, or implemented with chemoenzymatic synthetic approaches. In this review, we discuss the progress that has been made toward biosynthetic pathway elucidation amongst four classes of psychoactive natural products: hallucinogens, stimulants, cannabinoids, and opioids. Compounds of diverse biosynthetic origin - terpene, amino acid, polyketide - are identified, and notable mechanisms of key scaffold transforming steps are highlighted. We also provide a description of subsequent applications of the biosynthetic machinery, with an emphasis placed on the synthetic biology and metabolic engineering strategies enabling heterologous production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cooper S Jamieson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Joshua Misa
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Yi Tang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA. and Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - John M Billingsley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA. and Invizyne Technologies, Inc., Monrovia, CA, USA
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32
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Awakawa T. Enzymatic reactions in teleocidin B biosynthesis. J Nat Med 2021; 75:467-474. [PMID: 33675456 PMCID: PMC8159823 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-021-01504-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The teleocidin B family members are terpene indole compounds isolated from Streptomyces bacteria, and they strongly activate protein kinase C (PKC). Their unique structures have attracted many researchers in the natural product chemistry and pharmacology fields, and numerous isolation and bioactivity studies have been conducted. The accumulated information has facilitated the identification of the enzymatic reactions in teleocidin biosynthesis, and new developments in structural biology have strongly aided efforts to clarify the finer points of these reactions. This review describes the recent biochemical and structural biological studies to reveal their reaction mechanisms, with a primary focus on the terpene cyclization triggered by the C-N bond formation by P450 oxygenase (TleB), the prenyltransferase (TleC), and the methyltransferase (TleD). This new knowledge will benefit future engineering studies to create unnatural PKC activators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayoshi Awakawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
- Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi 1-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.
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33
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Abstract
Covering: up to mid-2020 Terpenoids, also called isoprenoids, are the largest and most structurally diverse family of natural products. Found in all domains of life, there are over 80 000 known compounds. The majority of characterized terpenoids, which include some of the most well known, pharmaceutically relevant, and commercially valuable natural products, are produced by plants and fungi. Comparatively, terpenoids of bacterial origin are rare. This is counter-intuitive to the fact that recent microbial genomics revealed that almost all bacteria have the biosynthetic potential to create the C5 building blocks necessary for terpenoid biosynthesis. In this review, we catalogue terpenoids produced by bacteria. We collected 1062 natural products, consisting of both primary and secondary metabolites, and classified them into two major families and 55 distinct subfamilies. To highlight the structural and chemical space of bacterial terpenoids, we discuss their structures, biosynthesis, and biological activities. Although the bacterial terpenome is relatively small, it presents a fascinating dichotomy for future research. Similarities between bacterial and non-bacterial terpenoids and their biosynthetic pathways provides alternative model systems for detailed characterization while the abundance of novel skeletons, biosynthetic pathways, and bioactivies presents new opportunities for drug discovery, genome mining, and enzymology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Rudolf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
| | - Tyler A Alsup
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
| | - Baofu Xu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
| | - Zining Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
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34
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Lim KJH, Lim YP, Hartono YD, Go MK, Fan H, Yew WS. Biosynthesis of Nature-Inspired Unnatural Cannabinoids. Molecules 2021; 26:2914. [PMID: 34068935 PMCID: PMC8156804 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26102914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural products make up a large proportion of medicine available today. Cannabinoids from the plant Cannabis sativa is one unique class of meroterpenoids that have shown a wide range of bioactivities and recently seen significant developments in their status as therapeutic agents for various indications. Their complex chemical structures make it difficult to chemically synthesize them in efficient yields. Synthetic biology has presented a solution to this through metabolic engineering in heterologous hosts. Through genetic manipulation, rare phytocannabinoids that are produced in low yields in the plant can now be synthesized in larger quantities for therapeutic and commercial use. Additionally, an exciting avenue of exploring new chemical spaces is made available as novel derivatized compounds can be produced and investigated for their bioactivities. In this review, we summarized the biosynthetic pathways of phytocannabinoids and synthetic biology efforts in producing them in heterologous hosts. Detailed mechanistic insights are discussed in each part of the pathway in order to explore strategies for creating novel cannabinoids. Lastly, we discussed studies conducted on biological targets such as CB1, CB2 and orphan receptors along with their affinities to these cannabinoid ligands with a view to inform upstream diversification efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. H. Lim
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Yan Ping Lim
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Yossa D. Hartono
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Maybelle K. Go
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Hao Fan
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Wen Shan Yew
- Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore 117456, Singapore; (K.J.H.L.); (Y.P.L.); (Y.D.H.); (M.K.G.); (H.F.)
- Synthetic Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 14 Medical Drive, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
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35
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Isogai S, Okahashi N, Asama R, Nakamura T, Hasunuma T, Matsuda F, Ishii J, Kondo A. Synthetic production of prenylated naringenins in yeast using promiscuous microbial prenyltransferases. Metab Eng Commun 2021; 12:e00169. [PMID: 33868922 PMCID: PMC8040282 DOI: 10.1016/j.mec.2021.e00169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Reconstitution of prenylflavonoids using the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway and prenyltransferases (PTs) in microbes can be a promising attractive alternative to plant-based production or chemical synthesis. Here, we demonstrate that promiscuous microbial PTs can be a substitute for regiospecific but mostly unidentified botanical PTs. To test the prenylations of naringenin, we constructed a yeast strain capable of producing naringenin from l-phenylalanine by genomic integration of six exogenous genes encoding components of the naringenin biosynthetic pathway. Using this platform strain, various microbial PTs were tested for prenylnaringenin production. In vitro screening demonstrated that the fungal AnaPT (a member of the tryptophan dimethylallyltransferase family) specifically catalyzed C-3′ prenylation of naringenin, whereas SfN8DT-1, a botanical PT, specifically catalyzed C-8 prenylation. In vivo, the naringenin-producing strain expressing the microbial AnaPT exhibited heterologous microbial production of 3′-prenylnaringenin (3′-PN), in contrast to the previously reported in vivo production of 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN) using the botanical SfN8DT-1. These findings provide strategies towards expanding the production of a variety of prenylated compounds, including well-known prenylnaringenins and novel prenylflavonoids. These results also suggest the opportunity for substituting botanical PTs, both known and unidentified, that display relatively strict regiospecificity of the prenyl group transfer. Promiscuous microbial prenyltransferases replaced regiospecific botanical enzymes. A stable yeast strain that produced naringenin from l-phenylalanine was constructed. A fungal prenyltransferase (AnaPT) catalyzed C-3′ prenylation of naringenin. AnaPT catalyzed the first microbial production of 3′-prenylnaringenin. Microbial prenyltransferases permit the production of various prenylated compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Isogai
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.,Technology Research Association of Highly Efficient Gene Design (TRAHED), Kobe, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Okahashi
- Department of Bioinformatic Engineering, Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University, 1-5 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ririka Asama
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
| | - Tomomi Nakamura
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.,Technology Research Association of Highly Efficient Gene Design (TRAHED), Kobe, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Hasunuma
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.,Technology Research Association of Highly Efficient Gene Design (TRAHED), Kobe, Japan.,Engineering Biology Research Center, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
| | - Fumio Matsuda
- Department of Bioinformatic Engineering, Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University, 1-5 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Jun Ishii
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.,Technology Research Association of Highly Efficient Gene Design (TRAHED), Kobe, Japan.,Engineering Biology Research Center, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
| | - Akihiko Kondo
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.,Technology Research Association of Highly Efficient Gene Design (TRAHED), Kobe, Japan.,Engineering Biology Research Center, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.,Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.,Center for Sustainable Resource Science, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, 230-0045, Japan
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36
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Purushothaman M, Sarkar S, Morita M, Gugger M, Schmidt EW, Morinaka BI. Genome-Mining-Based Discovery of the Cyclic Peptide Tolypamide and TolF, a Ser/Thr Forward O-Prenyltransferase. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:8460-8465. [PMID: 33586286 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202015975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cyanobactins comprise a widespread group of peptide metabolites produced by cyanobacteria that are often diversified by post-translational prenylation. Several enzymes have been identified in cyanobactin biosynthetic pathways that carry out chemically diverse prenylation reactions, representing a resource for the discovery of post-translational alkylating agents. Here, genome mining was used to identify orphan cyanobactin prenyltransferases, leading to the isolation of tolypamide from the freshwater cyanobacterium Tolypothrix sp. The structure of tolypamide was confirmed by spectroscopic methods, degradation, and enzymatic total synthesis. Tolypamide is forward-prenylated on a threonine residue, representing an unprecedented post-translational modification. Biochemical characterization of the cognate enzyme TolF revealed a prenyltransferase with strict selectivity for forward O-prenylation of serine or threonine but with relaxed substrate selectivity for flanking peptide sequences. Since cyanobactin pathways often exhibit exceptionally broad substrate tolerance, these enzymes represent robust tools for synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mugilarasi Purushothaman
- Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, 18 Science Dr 4, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Snigdha Sarkar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Maho Morita
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan
| | - Muriel Gugger
- Institut Pasteur, Collection des Cyanobactéries, Département de Microbiologie, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Eric W Schmidt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Brandon I Morinaka
- Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, 18 Science Dr 4, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
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37
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Purushothaman M, Sarkar S, Morita M, Gugger M, Schmidt EW, Morinaka BI. Genome‐Mining‐Based Discovery of the Cyclic Peptide Tolypamide and TolF, a Ser/Thr Forward
O
‐Prenyltransferase. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202015975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mugilarasi Purushothaman
- Department of Pharmacy National University of Singapore 18 Science Dr 4 Singapore 117543 Singapore
| | - Snigdha Sarkar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry University of Utah Salt Lake City UT 84112 USA
| | - Maho Morita
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa Nagoya 464-8601 Japan
| | - Muriel Gugger
- Institut Pasteur Collection des Cyanobactéries Département de Microbiologie 75015 Paris France
| | - Eric W. Schmidt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry University of Utah Salt Lake City UT 84112 USA
| | - Brandon I. Morinaka
- Department of Pharmacy National University of Singapore 18 Science Dr 4 Singapore 117543 Singapore
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38
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Emon NU, Alam MM, Uddin Sawon MS, Rana EH, Afroj M, Hasan Tanvir MM. Biological and computational studies provide insights into Caesalphinia digyna Rottler stems. Biochem Biophys Rep 2021; 26:100994. [PMID: 33898766 PMCID: PMC8056226 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2021.100994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Caesalpinia digyna (Rottl.) (Family: Fabaceae) is an essential medicinal plant for it's conventional uses against a kind of human disorders. This research aims to investigate the antidiarrheal, antibacterial and antifungal properties of the methanol extract of the stems extracts of the C. digyna (MECD). The in vivo antidiarrheal activity of the stem extracts were evaluated by using castor oil-induced diarrhea, castor oil-induced enteropooling and charcoal induced intestinal transit in mice model. Besides, in vitro antimicrobial potentiality of MECD was investigated by the disc diffusion method. In silico activity of the isolated compounds were performed by Schrödinger-Maestro (Version 11.1) software. In addition, The ADME/T analysis and PASS prediction were implemented by using pass online tools. In the antidiarrheal investigation, the MECD exhibited a notable inhibition rate in all test approaches which were statistically significant (p < 0.05, p < 0.1, p < 0.01). MECD 400 mg/kg showed the maximum antidiarrheal potency in all the test methods. In vitro antimicrobial analysis unveiled that, MECD revealed higher potentiality against almost all pathogens and indicates dose-dependent activity against almost all the bacteria and fungi. In the case of in silico evaluation of anti-diarrheal, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity, all three isolated compounds met the pre-conditions of Lipinski's five rules for drug discovery. Pass predicted study also employed for all compounds. However, The chemical constituents of the C. digyna can be a potent source of anti-diarrheal, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal medicine and further modification and simulation studies are required to establish the effectiveness of bioactive compounds. Caesalpinia digyna is used to prepare therapeutic product "Geriforte". The pods, bark and seed pods of C. digyna contains high amount of tannins and flavonoids. Caesalpinia digyna is used to treat diarrhea, chronic fluxes, senile pruritis, tuberculosis, tonic disorder, and diabetes. This study is to validate the ethnopharmacological values of C. digyna stems. This is the first research work till now where, the stems of C. digyna have been studied. The results of in vivo, in vitro and in silico studies is comparatively closer to the standard drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazim Uddin Emon
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, 4318, Bangladesh.,Department of Public Health, School of Science and Technology, Bangladesh Open University, Gazipur, 1705, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Munsur Alam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, 4318, Bangladesh
| | - Md Solaman Uddin Sawon
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, 4318, Bangladesh
| | - Ezazul Hoque Rana
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, 4318, Bangladesh
| | - Marufa Afroj
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, 4318, Bangladesh
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Chen HP, Abe I. Microbial soluble aromatic prenyltransferases for engineered biosynthesis. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2021; 6:51-62. [PMID: 33778178 PMCID: PMC7973389 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2021.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenyltransferase (PTase) enzymes play crucial roles in natural product biosynthesis by transferring isoprene unit(s) to target substrates, thereby generating prenylated compounds. The prenylation step leads to a diverse group of natural products with improved membrane affinity and enhanced bioactivity, as compared to the non-prenylated forms. The last two decades have witnessed increasing studies on the identification, characterization, enzyme engineering, and synthetic biology of microbial PTase family enzymes. We herein summarize several examples of microbial soluble aromatic PTases for chemoenzymatic syntheses of unnatural novel prenylated compounds.
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Key Words
- Biosynthesis
- DHN, dihydroxynaphthalene
- DMAPP, dimethylallyl diphosphate
- DMATS, dimethylallyltryptophan synthase
- DMSPP, dimethylallyl S-thiolodiphosphate
- Enzyme engineering
- FPP, farnesyl diphosphate
- GFPP, geranyl farnesyl diphosphate
- GPP, geranyl diphosphate
- GSPP, geranyl S- thiolodiphosphate
- IPP, isopentenyl pyrophosphate
- Microbial prenyltransferase
- PPP, phytyl pyrophosphate
- PTase, prenyltransferase
- Prenylation
- RiPP, ribosomally synthesized and posttranslationally modified peptide
- Synthetic biology
- THN, 1,3,6,8-tetrahydroxynaphthalene
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Affiliation(s)
- He-Ping Chen
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, PR China
| | - Ikuro Abe
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi 1-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan
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40
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Blatt-Janmaat K, Qu Y. The Biochemistry of Phytocannabinoids and Metabolic Engineering of Their Production in Heterologous Systems. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052454. [PMID: 33671077 PMCID: PMC7957758 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The medicinal properties of cannabis and the its legal status in several countries and jurisdictions has spurred the massive growth of the cannabis economy around the globe. The value of cannabis stems from its euphoric activity offered by the unique phytocannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, this is rapidly expanding beyond THC owing to other non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids with new bioactivities that will contribute to their development into clinically useful drugs. The discovery of the biosynthesis of major phytocannabinoids has allowed the exploration of their heterologous production by synthetic biology, which may lead to the industrial production of rare phytocannabinoids or novel synthetic cannabinoid pharmaceuticals that are not easily offered by cannabis plants. This review summarizes the biosynthesis of major phytocannabinoids in detail, the most recent development of their metabolic engineering in various systems, and the engineering approaches and strategies used to increase the yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn Blatt-Janmaat
- Department of Chemistry, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada;
| | - Yang Qu
- Department of Chemistry, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada;
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Chang HY, Cheng TH, Wang AHJ. Structure, catalysis, and inhibition mechanism of prenyltransferase. IUBMB Life 2020; 73:40-63. [PMID: 33246356 PMCID: PMC7839719 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Isoprenoids, also known as terpenes or terpenoids, represent a large family of natural products composed of five‐carbon isopentenyl diphosphate or its isomer dimethylallyl diphosphate as the building blocks. Isoprenoids are structurally and functionally diverse and include dolichols, steroid hormones, carotenoids, retinoids, aromatic metabolites, the isoprenoid side‐chain of ubiquinone, and isoprenoid attached signaling proteins. Productions of isoprenoids are catalyzed by a group of enzymes known as prenyltransferases, such as farnesyltransferases, geranylgeranyltransferases, terpenoid cyclase, squalene synthase, aromatic prenyltransferase, and cis‐ and trans‐prenyltransferases. Because these enzymes are key in cellular processes and metabolic pathways, they are expected to be potential targets in new drug discovery. In this review, six distinct subsets of characterized prenyltransferases are structurally and mechanistically classified, including (1) head‐to‐tail prenyl synthase, (2) head‐to‐head prenyl synthase, (3) head‐to‐middle prenyl synthase, (4) terpenoid cyclase, (5) aromatic prenyltransferase, and (6) protein prenylation. Inhibitors of those enzymes for potential therapies against several diseases are discussed. Lastly, recent results on the structures of integral membrane enzyme, undecaprenyl pyrophosphate phosphatase, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Yang Chang
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Hsing Cheng
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Andrew H-J Wang
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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Ostertag E, Zheng L, Broger K, Stehle T, Li SM, Zocher G. Reprogramming Substrate and Catalytic Promiscuity of Tryptophan Prenyltransferases. J Mol Biol 2020; 433:166726. [PMID: 33249189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2020.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Prenylation is a process widely prevalent in primary and secondary metabolism, contributing to functionality and chemical diversity in natural systems. Due to their high regio- and chemoselectivities, prenyltransferases are also valuable tools for creation of new compounds by chemoenzymatic synthesis and synthetic biology. Over the last ten years, biochemical and structural investigations shed light on the mechanism and key residues that control the catalytic process, but to date crucial information on how certain prenyltransferases control regioselectivity and chemoselectivity is still lacking. Here, we advance a general understanding of the enzyme family by contributing the first structure of a tryptophan C5-prenyltransferase 5-DMATS. Additinally, the structure of a bacterial tryptophan C6-prenyltransferase 6-DMATS was solved. Analysis and comparison of both substrate-bound complexes led to the identification of key residues for catalysis. Next, site-directed mutagenesis was successfully implemented to not only modify the prenyl donor specificity but also to redirect the prenylation, thereby switching the regioselectivity of 6-DMATS to that of 5-DMATS. The general strategy of structure-guided protein engineering should be applicable to other related prenyltransferases, thus enabling the production of novel prenylated compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ostertag
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Liujuan Zheng
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Biotechnology, Fachbereich Pharmacy, University of Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Karina Broger
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thilo Stehle
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Shu-Ming Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Biotechnology, Fachbereich Pharmacy, University of Marburg, 35037 Marburg, Germany.
| | - Georg Zocher
- Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
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Gülck T, Booth JK, Carvalho Â, Khakimov B, Crocoll C, Motawia MS, Møller BL, Bohlmann J, Gallage NJ. Synthetic Biology of Cannabinoids and Cannabinoid Glucosides in Nicotiana benthamiana and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2020; 83:2877-2893. [PMID: 33000946 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Phytocannabinoids are a group of plant-derived metabolites that display a wide range of psychoactive as well as health-promoting effects. The production of pharmaceutically relevant cannabinoids relies on extraction and purification from cannabis (Cannabis sativa) plants yielding the major constituents, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol. Heterologous biosynthesis of cannabinoids in Nicotiana benthamiana or Saccharomyces cerevisiae may provide cost-efficient and rapid future production platforms to acquire pure and high quantities of both the major and the rare cannabinoids as well as novel derivatives. Here, we used a meta-transcriptomic analysis of cannabis to identify genes for aromatic prenyltransferases of the UbiA superfamily and chalcone isomerase-like (CHIL) proteins. Among the aromatic prenyltransferases, CsaPT4 showed CBGAS activity in both N. benthamiana and S. cerevisiae. Coexpression of selected CsaPT pairs and of CHIL proteins encoding genes with CsaPT4 did not affect CBGAS catalytic efficiency. In a screen of different plant UDP-glycosyltransferases, Stevia rebaudiana SrUGT71E1 and Oryza sativa OsUGT5 were found to glucosylate olivetolic acid, cannabigerolic acid, and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. Metabolic engineering of N. benthamiana for production of cannabinoids revealed intrinsic glucosylation of olivetolic acid and cannabigerolic acid. S. cerevisiae was engineered to produce olivetolic acid glucoside and cannabigerolic acid glucoside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thies Gülck
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - J K Booth
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, 2185 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Â Carvalho
- River Stone Biotech ApS, Fruebjergvej 3, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
| | - B Khakimov
- Chemometrics & Analytical Technology, Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 26, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - C Crocoll
- Copenhagen Plant Science Centre, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - M S Motawia
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - B L Møller
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
- Copenhagen Plant Science Centre, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - J Bohlmann
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, 2185 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - N J Gallage
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
- Octarine Bio, Fruebjergvej 3, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
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44
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Murray LAM, McKinnie SMK, Moore BS, George JH. Meroterpenoid natural products from Streptomyces bacteria - the evolution of chemoenzymatic syntheses. Nat Prod Rep 2020; 37:1334-1366. [PMID: 32602506 PMCID: PMC7578067 DOI: 10.1039/d0np00018c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Covering: Up to January 2020Meroterpenoids derived from the polyketide 1,3,6,8-tetrahydroxynaphthalene (THN) are complex natural products produced exclusively by Streptomyces bacteria. These antibacterial compounds include the napyradiomycins, merochlorins, marinones, and furaquinocins and have inspired many attempts at their chemical synthesis. In this review, we highlight the role played by biosynthetic studies in the stimulation of biomimetic and, ultimately, chemoenzymatic total syntheses of these natural products. In particular, the application of genome mining techniques to marine Streptomyces bacteria led to the discovery of unique prenyltransferase and vanadium-dependent haloperoxidase enzymes that can be used as highly selective biocatalysts in fully enzymatic total syntheses, thus overcoming the limitations of purely chemical reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A M Murray
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia.
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45
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Gülck T, Møller BL. Phytocannabinoids: Origins and Biosynthesis. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 25:985-1004. [PMID: 32646718 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Phytocannabinoids are bioactive natural products found in some flowering plants, liverworts, and fungi that can be beneficial for the treatment of human ailments such as pain, anxiety, and cachexia. Targeted biosynthesis of cannabinoids with desirable properties requires identification of the underlying genes and their expression in a suitable heterologous host. We provide an overview of the structural classification of phytocannabinoids based on their decorated resorcinol core and the bioactivities of naturally occurring cannabinoids, and we review current knowledge of phytocannabinoid biosynthesis in Cannabis, Rhododendron, and Radula species. We also highlight the potential in planta roles of phytocannabinoids and the opportunity for synthetic biology approaches based on combinatorial biochemistry and protein engineering to produce cannabinoid derivatives with improved properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thies Gülck
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark; VILLUM Center for Plant Plasticity, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark; Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Birger Lindberg Møller
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark; VILLUM Center for Plant Plasticity, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark; Center for Synthetic Biology, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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46
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Shen X, Wang X, Huang T, Deng Z, Lin S. Naphthoquinone-Based Meroterpenoids from Marine-Derived Streptomyces sp. B9173. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10081187. [PMID: 32824158 PMCID: PMC7463872 DOI: 10.3390/biom10081187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Naphthoquinone-based meroterpenoids are hybrid polyketide-terpenoid natural products with chemical diversity and a broad range of biological activities. Here, we report the isolation of a group of naphthoquinone-containing compounds from Streptomyces sp. B9173, and their structures were elucidated by using a combination of spectroscopic techniques, including 1D, 2D NMR, and high-resolution mass (HRMS) analysis. Seven flaviogeranin congeners or intermediates, three of which were new, have been derived from common naphthoquinone backbone and subsequent oxidation, methylation, prenylation, and amino group incorporation. Both flaviogeranin B1 (1) and B (2) contain an amino group which was incorporated into the C8 of 1,3,6,8-terhydroxynaphthalene (THN). Flaviogeranin D (3) contains an intact C-geranylgeranyl residue attached to the C2 of THN, while the O-geranylgeranyl group of 2 links with the hydroxyl on the C2 site of THN. Four compounds were selected and tested for antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity, with 3 and flaviogeranin C2 (5) displaying potent activity against selected bacteria and cancer cell lines. In light of the structure features of isolated compounds and the biosynthetic genes, a biosynthetic pathway of naphthoquinone-based flaviogeranins has been proposed. These isolated compounds not only extend the structural diversity but also represent new insights into the biosynthesis of naphthoquinone-based meroterpenoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinqian Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; 800 Dongchuan Rd, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaozheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; 800 Dongchuan Rd, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Tingting Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; 800 Dongchuan Rd, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Zixin Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; 800 Dongchuan Rd, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Shuangjun Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, and Joint International Research Laboratory on Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; 800 Dongchuan Rd, Shanghai 200240, China
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He H, Bian G, Herbst-Gervasoni CJ, Mori T, Shinsky SA, Hou A, Mu X, Huang M, Cheng S, Deng Z, Christianson DW, Abe I, Liu T. Discovery of the cryptic function of terpene cyclases as aromatic prenyltransferases. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3958. [PMID: 32769971 PMCID: PMC7414894 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17642-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Catalytic versatility is an inherent property of many enzymes. In nature, terpene cyclases comprise the foundation of molecular biodiversity as they generate diverse hydrocarbon scaffolds found in thousands of terpenoid natural products. Here, we report that the catalytic activity of the terpene cyclases AaTPS and FgGS can be switched from cyclase to aromatic prenyltransferase at basic pH to generate prenylindoles. The crystal structures of AaTPS and FgGS provide insights into the catalytic mechanism of this cryptic function. Moreover, aromatic prenyltransferase activity discovered in other terpene cyclases indicates that this cryptic function is broadly conserved among the greater family of terpene cyclases. We suggest that this cryptic function is chemoprotective for the cell by regulating isoprenoid diphosphate concentrations so that they are maintained below toxic thresholds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibing He
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Guangkai Bian
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Corey J Herbst-Gervasoni
- Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6323, USA
| | - Takahiro Mori
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Stephen A Shinsky
- Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6323, USA
| | - Anwei Hou
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Mu
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Minjian Huang
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zixin Deng
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - David W Christianson
- Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6323, USA.
| | - Ikuro Abe
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Tiangang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Engineering Laboratory for Synthetic Microbiology, Wuhan Institute of Biotechnology, Wuhan, China.
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Kobayashi M, Kuzuyama T. Recent Advances in the Biosynthesis of Carbazoles Produced by Actinomycetes. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10081147. [PMID: 32764478 PMCID: PMC7466098 DOI: 10.3390/biom10081147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Structurally diverse carbazole alkaloids are valuable due to their pharmaceutical properties and have been isolated from nature. Experimental knowledge on carbazole biosynthesis is limited. The latest development of in silico analysis of the biosynthetic gene clusters for bacterial carbazoles has allowed studies on the biosynthesis of a carbazole skeleton, which was established by sequential enzyme-coupling reactions associated with an unprecedented carbazole synthase, a thiamine-dependent enzyme, and a ketosynthase-like enzyme. This review describes the carbazole biosynthetic mechanism, which includes a key step in enzymatic formation of a tricyclic carbazole skeleton, followed by modifications such as prenylation and hydroxylation in the skeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaya Kobayashi
- Biotechnology Research Center, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan;
| | - Tomohisa Kuzuyama
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +81-3-5841-3080
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49
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Algal neurotoxin biosynthesis repurposes the terpene cyclase structural fold into an N-prenyltransferase. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:12799-12805. [PMID: 32457155 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2001325117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenylation is a common biological reaction in all domains of life wherein prenyl diphosphate donors transfer prenyl groups onto small molecules as well as large proteins. The enzymes that catalyze these reactions are structurally distinct from ubiquitous terpene cyclases that, instead, assemble terpenes via intramolecular rearrangements of a single substrate. Herein, we report the structure and molecular details of a new family of prenyltransferases from marine algae that repurposes the terpene cyclase structural fold for the N-prenylation of glutamic acid during the biosynthesis of the potent neurochemicals domoic acid and kainic acid. We solved the X-ray crystal structure of the prenyltransferase found in domoic acid biosynthesis, DabA, and show distinct active site binding modifications that remodel the canonical magnesium (Mg2+)-binding motif found in terpene cyclases. We then applied our structural knowledge of DabA and a homologous enzyme from the kainic acid biosynthetic pathway, KabA, to reengineer their isoprene donor specificities (geranyl diphosphate [GPP] versus dimethylallyl diphosphate [DMAPP]) with a single amino acid change. While diatom DabA and seaweed KabA enzymes share a common evolutionary lineage, they are distinct from all other terpene cyclases, suggesting a very distant ancestor to the larger terpene synthase family.
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Vib-PT, an Aromatic Prenyltransferase Involved in the Biosynthesis of Vibralactone from Stereum vibrans. Appl Environ Microbiol 2020; 86:AEM.02687-19. [PMID: 32144102 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02687-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vibralactone, a hybrid compound derived from phenols and a prenyl group, is a strong pancreatic lipase inhibitor with a rare fused bicyclic β-lactone skeleton. Recently, a researcher reported a vibralactone derivative (compound C1) that caused inhibition of pancreatic lipase with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 14 nM determined by structure-based optimization, suggesting a potential candidate as a new antiobesity treatment. In the present study, we sought to identify the main gene encoding prenyltransferase in Stereum vibrans, which is responsible for the prenylation of phenol leading to vibralactone synthesis. Two RNA silencing transformants of the identified gene (vib-PT) were obtained through Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation. Compared to wild-type strains, the transformants showed a decrease in vib-PT expression ranging from 11.0 to 56.0% at 5, 10, and 15 days in reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analysis, along with a reduction in primary vibralactone production of 37 to 64% at 15 and 21 days, respectively, as determined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. A soluble and enzymatically active fusion Vib-PT protein was obtained by expressing vib-PT in Escherichia coli, and the enzyme's optimal reaction conditions and catalytic efficiency (Km /k cat) were determined. In vitro experiments established that Vib-PT catalyzed the C-prenylation at C-3 of 4-hydroxy-benzaldehyde and the O-prenylation at the 4-hydroxy of 4-hydroxy-benzenemethanol in the presence of dimethylallyl diphosphate. Moreover, Vib-PT shows promiscuity toward aromatic compounds and prenyl donors.IMPORTANCE Vibralactone is a lead compound with a novel skeleton structure that shows strong inhibitory activity against pancreatic lipase. Vibralactone is not encoded by the genome directly but rather is synthesized from phenol, followed by prenylation and other enzyme reactions. Here, we used an RNA silencing approach to identify and characterize a prenyltransferase in a basidiomycete species that is responsible for the synthesis of vibralactone. The identified gene, vib-PT, was expressed in Escherichia coli to obtain a soluble and enzymatically active fusion Vib-PT protein. In vitro characterization of the enzyme demonstrated the catalytic mechanism of prenylation and broad substrate range for different aromatic acceptors and prenyl donors. These characteristics highlight the possibility of Vib-PT to generate prenylated derivatives of aromatics and other compounds as improved bioactive agents or potential prodrugs.
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