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Golubova D, Tansley C, Su H, Patron NJ. Engineering Nicotiana benthamiana as a platform for natural product biosynthesis. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 81:102611. [PMID: 39098308 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2024.102611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Nicotiana benthamiana is a model plant, widely used for research. The susceptibility of young plants to Agrobacterium tumefaciens has been utilised for transient gene expression, enabling the production of recombinant proteins at laboratory and commercial scales. More recently, this technique has been used for the rapid prototyping of synthetic genetic circuits and for the elucidation and reconstruction of metabolic pathways. In the last few years, many complex metabolic pathways have been successfully reconstructed in this species. In addition, the availability of improved genomic resources and efficient gene editing tools have enabled the application of sophisticated metabolic engineering approaches to increase the purity and yield of target compounds. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the use of N. benthamiana for understanding and engineering plant metabolism, as well as efforts to improve the utility of this species as a production chassis for natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Golubova
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UZ, UK
| | - C Tansley
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UZ, UK; Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EA, UK
| | - H Su
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UZ, UK
| | - N J Patron
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UZ, UK; Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EA, UK.
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2
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Rong N, Huang L, Ye P, Pan H, Hu M, Bai M, Wu H. CgLS mediates limonene synthesis of main essential oil component in secretory cavity cells of Citrus grandis 'Tomentosa' fruits. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 280:135671. [PMID: 39284463 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.135671] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
d-Limonene is the predominant component of essential oil from Exocarpium Citri Grandis, known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, insecticidal, and anti-inflammatory properties. The synthesis, transport, and accumulation of d-limonene in Citrus grandis 'Tomentosa' fruits are regulated by limonene synthase (LS) and its associated regulatory genes. This study addresses the gap in understanding the spatiotemporal cytological changes of LS and its regulatory genes. Through cytochemical techniques, we investigated the distribution of essential oil in the plastids, endoplasmic reticulum, and vacuoles of secretory cavity cells. We identified the LS-encoding gene CgLS via transcriptomics and demonstrated in vitro that CgLS catalyzes the formation of d-limonene from geranyl diphosphate (GPP). Transient overexpression of CgLS increased monoterpene limonene accumulation, while TRV virus-induced gene silencing reduced it. CgLS expression levels and d-limonene content showed spatiotemporal consistency with fruit development, with in situ hybridization revealing predominant expression in secretory cavity cells. Immunocytochemical localization indicated that CgLS is primarily located in the endoplasmic reticulum, plastids, and vacuoles. Our findings suggest that CgLS is translated in the endoplasmic reticulum and transported to plastids and vacuoles where d-limonene synthesis occurs. This study provides comprehensive insights into the characteristics of CgLS and its role in d-limonene synthesis at the tissue, cellular, and molecular levels in C. grandis 'Tomentosa'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Rong
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Technology Research Center for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Natural Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Innovative Developmentand Utilization of Forest Plant Germplasm, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Center for Medicinal Plants Research, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Liying Huang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Technology Research Center for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Natural Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Innovative Developmentand Utilization of Forest Plant Germplasm, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Center for Medicinal Plants Research, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Peng Ye
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Technology Research Center for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Natural Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Innovative Developmentand Utilization of Forest Plant Germplasm, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Center for Medicinal Plants Research, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Huimin Pan
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Technology Research Center for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Natural Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Innovative Developmentand Utilization of Forest Plant Germplasm, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Center for Medicinal Plants Research, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Mingli Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Mei Bai
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Maoming Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Youchenliu Road, Maoming 525000, China; Guangdong Technology Research Center for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Natural Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Innovative Developmentand Utilization of Forest Plant Germplasm, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Center for Medicinal Plants Research, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Hong Wu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Technology Research Center for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Natural Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Innovative Developmentand Utilization of Forest Plant Germplasm, South China Agricultural University, Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China; Center for Medicinal Plants Research, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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3
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Bergman ME, Kortbeek RWJ, Gutensohn M, Dudareva N. Plant terpenoid biosynthetic network and its multiple layers of regulation. Prog Lipid Res 2024; 95:101287. [PMID: 38906423 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2024.101287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Terpenoids constitute one of the largest and most chemically diverse classes of primary and secondary metabolites in nature with an exceptional breadth of functional roles in plants. Biosynthesis of all terpenoids begins with the universal five‑carbon building blocks, isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) and its allylic isomer dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP), which in plants are derived from two compartmentally separated but metabolically crosstalking routes, the mevalonic acid (MVA) and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathways. Here, we review the current knowledge on the terpenoid precursor pathways and highlight the critical hidden constraints as well as multiple regulatory mechanisms that coordinate and homeostatically govern carbon flux through the terpenoid biosynthetic network in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E Bergman
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States; Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Ruy W J Kortbeek
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States; Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Michael Gutensohn
- Division of Plant and Soil Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Natalia Dudareva
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States; Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States; Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.
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Zhao Y, Chen Y, Gao M, Wang Y. Alcohol dehydrogenases regulated by a MYB44 transcription factor underlie Lauraceae citral biosynthesis. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 194:1674-1691. [PMID: 37831423 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Lineage-specific terpenoids have arisen throughout the evolution of land plants and are believed to play a role in interactions between plants and the environment. Species-specific gene clusters in plants have provided insight on the evolution of secondary metabolism. Lauraceae is an ecologically important plant family whose members are also of considerable economic value given their monoterpene contents. However, the gene cluster responsible for the biosynthesis of monoterpenes remains yet to be elucidated. Here, a Lauraceae-specific citral biosynthetic gene cluster (CGC) was identified and investigated using a multifaceted approach that combined phylogenetic, collinearity, and biochemical analyses. The CGC comprises MYB44 as a regulator and 2 alcohol dehydrogenases (ADHs) as modifying enzymes, which derived from species-specific tandem and proximal duplication events. Activity and substrate divergence of the ADHs has resulted in the fruit of mountain pepper (Litsea cubeba), a core Lauraceae species, consisting of more than 80% citral. In addition, MYB44 negatively regulates citral biosynthesis by directly binding to the promoters of the ADH-encoding genes. The aggregation of citral biosynthetic pathways suggests that they may form the basis of important characteristics that enhance adaptability. The findings of this study provide insights into the evolution of and the regulatory mechanisms involved in plant terpene biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
| | - Yicun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
| | - Ming Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
| | - Yangdong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
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Wang W, Wang M, Feng J, Zhang S, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Tian R, Zhu C, Nieuwenhuizen NJ. Terpene Synthase Gene Family in Chinese Chestnut ( Castanea mollissima BL.) Harbors Two Sesquiterpene Synthase Genes Implicated in Defense against Gall Wasp Dryocosmus kuriphilus. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:1571-1581. [PMID: 38206573 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c07086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima BL.) is a well-known fruit tree that has been cultivated in East Asia for millennia. Leaves and buds of the plant can become seriously infested by the gall wasp Dryocosmus kuriphilus (GWDK), which results in gall formation and associated significant losses in fruit production. Herbivore-induced terpenes have been reported to play an important role in plant-herbivory interactions, and in this study, we show that upon herbivory by GWDK, four terpene-related compounds were significantly induced, while the concentrations of these four compounds in intact buds were relatively low. Among these compounds, (E)-nerolidol and (E, E)-α-farnesene have frequently been reported to be involved in plant herbivory defenses, which suggests direct and/or indirect functions in chestnut GWDK defenses. Candidate terpene synthase (TPS) genes that may account for (E)-nerolidol and (E, E)-α-farnesene terpene biosynthesis were characterized by transcriptomics and phylogenetic approaches, which revealed altered transcript levels for two TPSs: CmAFS, a TPS-g subfamily member, and CmNES/AFS, a TPS-b clade member. Both genes were dramatically upregulated in gene expression upon GWDK infestation. Furthermore, Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transient overexpression in Nicotiana benthamiana showed that CmAFS catalyzed the formation of (E, E)-α-farnesene, while CmNES/AFS showed dual (E)-nerolidol and (E, E)-α-farnesene synthase activity. Biochemical assays of the recombinant CmAFS and CmNES/AFS proteins confirmed their catalytic activity in vitro, and the enzymatic products were consistent with two of the major volatile compounds released upon GWDK-infested chestnut buds. Subcellular localization demonstrated that CmAFS and CmNES/AFS were both localized in the cytoplasm, the primary compartment for sesquiterpene synthesis. In summary, we show that two novel sesquiterpene synthase genes CmAFS and CmNES/AFS are inducible by herbivory and can account for the elevated accumulation of (E, E)-α-farnesene and (E)-nerolidol upon GWDK infestation and may be implicated in chestnut defense against GWDK herbivores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences (Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen), Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Mindy Wang
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Ltd (PFR), Private Bag, 92169 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jiao Feng
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Ltd (PFR), Private Bag, 92169 Auckland, New Zealand
- College of Horticulture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Shijie Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences (Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen), Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences (Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen), Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Yuqiang Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences (Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen), Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Ruiping Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Cancan Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for the Research and Utilization of Plant Resources, Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences (Nanjing Botanical Garden Mem. Sun Yat-Sen), Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Niels J Nieuwenhuizen
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Ltd (PFR), Private Bag, 92169 Auckland, New Zealand
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6
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Moreira-Junior L, Leal-Cardoso JH, Cassola AC, Carvalho-de-Souza JL. State-Dependent Blockade of Dorsal Root Ganglion Voltage-Gated Na + Channels by Anethole. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1034. [PMID: 38256108 PMCID: PMC10816912 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021034] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Anethole is a phenolic compound synthesized by many aromatic plants. Anethole is a substance that humans can safely consume and has been studied for years as a biologically active molecule to treat a variety of conditions, including nerve damage, gastritis, inflammation, and nociception. Anethole is thought to carry out its biological activities through direct interaction with ion channels. Anethole is beneficial for neurodegenerative Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Nevertheless, nothing has been investigated regarding the effects of anethole on voltage-gated Na+ channels (VGSCs), which are major players in neuronal function. We used cultured dorsal root ganglion neurons from neonatal rats as a source of natively expressed VGSCs for electrophysiological studies using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Our data show that anethole interacts directly with VGSCs. Anethole quickly blocks and unblocks (when removed) voltage-activated Na+ currents in this preparation in a fully reversible manner. Anethole's binding affinity to these channels increases when the inactive states of these channels are populated, similar to lidocaine's effect on the same channels. Our data show that anethole inhibits neuronal activity by blocking VGSCs in a state-dependent manner. These findings relate to the putative anesthetic activity attributable to anethole, in addition to its potential benefit in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jose Henrique Leal-Cardoso
- Superior Institute of Biomedical Sciences, State University of Ceará, Campus of Itaperi, Fortaleza 607402, CE, Brazil
| | - Antonio Carlos Cassola
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo 05508, SP, Brazil
| | - Joao Luis Carvalho-de-Souza
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA;
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo 05508, SP, Brazil
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7
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Zhao Y, Chen Y, Gao M, Wu L, Wang Y. LcMYB106 suppresses monoterpene biosynthesis by negatively regulating LcTPS32 expression in Litsea cubeba. TREE PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 43:2150-2161. [PMID: 37682081 DOI: 10.1093/treephys/tpad111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Litsea cubeba, the core species of the Lauraceae family, is valuable for the production of essential oils due to its high concentration of monoterpenes (90%). The key monoterpene synthase and metabolic regulatory network of monoterpene biosynthesis have provided new insights for improving essential oil content. However, there are few studies on the regulation mechanism of monoterpenes in L. cubeba. In this study, we investigated LcTPS32, a member of the TPS-b subfamily, and identified its function as an enzyme for the synthesis of monoterpenes, including geraniol, α-pinene, β-pinene, β-myrcene, linalool and eucalyptol. The quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed that LcTPS32 was highly expressed in the fruits of L. cubeba and contributed to the characteristic flavor of its essential oil. Overexpression of LcTPS32 resulted in a significant increase in the production of monoterpenes in L. cubeba by activating both the MVA and MEP pathways. Additionally, the study revealed that LcMYB106 played a negative regulatory role in monoterpenes biosynthesis by directly binding to the promoter of LcTPS32. Our study indicates that LcMYB106 could serve as a crucial target for metabolic engineering endeavors, aiming at enhancing the monoterpene biosynthesis in L. cubeba.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Xiangshan Rd, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Daqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
| | - Yicun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Xiangshan Rd, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Daqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
| | - Ming Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Xiangshan Rd, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Daqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
| | - Liwen Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Xiangshan Rd, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Daqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
| | - Yangdong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Xiangshan Rd, Beijing 100091, China
- Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Daqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311400, China
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Yao L, Wu X, Jiang X, Shan M, Zhang Z, Li Y, Yang A, Li Y, Yang C. Subcellular compartmentalization in the biosynthesis and engineering of plant natural products. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 69:108258. [PMID: 37722606 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Plant natural products (PNPs) are specialized metabolites with diverse bioactivities. They are extensively used in the pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical and food industries. PNPs are synthesized in plant cells by enzymes that are distributed in different subcellular compartments with unique microenvironments, such as ions, co-factors and substrates. Plant metabolic engineering is an emerging and promising approach for the sustainable production of PNPs, for which the knowledge of the subcellular compartmentalization of their biosynthesis is instrumental. In this review we describe the state of the art on the role of subcellular compartments in the biosynthesis of major types of PNPs, including terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids and glucosinolates, and highlight the efforts to target biosynthetic pathways to subcellular compartments in plants. In addition, we will discuss the challenges and strategies in the field of plant synthetic biology and subcellular engineering. We expect that newly developed methods and tools, together with the knowledge gained from the microbial chassis, will greatly advance plant metabolic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yao
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Xiuming Wu
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Xun Jiang
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Muhammad Shan
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Zhuoxiang Zhang
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Yiting Li
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Aiguo Yang
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Yu Li
- Institute of Crop Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Changqing Yang
- Tobacco Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China.
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9
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Vollheyde K, Dudley QM, Yang T, Oz MT, Mancinotti D, Fedi MO, Heavens D, Linsmith G, Chhetry M, Smedley MA, Harwood WA, Swarbreck D, Geu‐Flores F, Patron NJ. An improved Nicotiana benthamiana bioproduction chassis provides novel insights into nicotine biosynthesis. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2023; 240:302-317. [PMID: 37488711 PMCID: PMC10952274 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
The model plant Nicotiana benthamiana is an increasingly attractive organism for the production of high-value, biologically active molecules. However, N. benthamiana accumulates high levels of pyridine alkaloids, in particular nicotine, which complicates the downstream purification processes. Here, we report a new assembly of the N. benthamiana genome as well as the generation of low-nicotine lines by CRISPR/Cas9-based inactivation of berberine bridge enzyme-like proteins (BBLs). Triple as well as quintuple mutants accumulated three to four times less nicotine than the respective control lines. The availability of lines without functional BBLs allowed us to probe their catalytic role in nicotine biosynthesis, which has remained obscure. Notably, chiral analysis revealed that the enantiomeric purity of nicotine was fully lost in the quintuple mutants. In addition, precursor feeding experiments showed that these mutants cannot facilitate the specific loss of C6 hydrogen that characterizes natural nicotine biosynthesis. Our work delivers an improved N. benthamiana chassis for bioproduction and uncovers the crucial role of BBLs in the stereoselectivity of nicotine biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Vollheyde
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen1871 FrederiksbergCopenhagenDenmark
| | | | - Ting Yang
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen1871 FrederiksbergCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Mehmet T. Oz
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research ParkNorwichNorfolkNR4 7UZUK
| | - Davide Mancinotti
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen1871 FrederiksbergCopenhagenDenmark
| | | | - Darren Heavens
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research ParkNorwichNorfolkNR4 7UZUK
| | - Gareth Linsmith
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research ParkNorwichNorfolkNR4 7UZUK
| | - Monika Chhetry
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichNorfolkNR4 7UHUK
| | - Mark A. Smedley
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research ParkNorwichNorfolkNR4 7UHUK
| | | | - David Swarbreck
- Earlham Institute, Norwich Research ParkNorwichNorfolkNR4 7UZUK
| | - Fernando Geu‐Flores
- Department of Plant and Environmental SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen1871 FrederiksbergCopenhagenDenmark
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10
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Claude SJ, Raman G, Park SJ. Comparative Analysis and Identification of Terpene Synthase Genes in Convallaria keiskei Leaf, Flower and Root Using RNA-Sequencing Profiling. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2797. [PMID: 37570951 PMCID: PMC10421360 DOI: 10.3390/plants12152797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
The 'Lilly of the Valley' species, Convallaria, is renowned for its fragrant white flowers and distinctive fresh and green floral scent, attributed to a rich composition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis of this floral scent remain poorly understood due to a lack of transcriptomic data. In this study, we conducted the first comparative transcriptome analysis of C. keiskei, encompassing the leaf, flower, and root tissues. Our aim was to investigate the terpene synthase (TPS) genes and differential gene expression (DEG) patterns associated with essential oil biosynthesis. Through de novo assembly, we generated a substantial number of unigenes, with the highest count in the root (146,550), followed by the flower (116,434) and the leaf (72,044). Among the identified unigenes, we focused on fifteen putative ckTPS genes, which are involved in the synthesis of mono- and sesquiterpenes, the key aromatic compounds responsible for the essential oil biosynthesis in C. keiskei. The expression of these genes was validated using quantitative PCR analysis. Both DEG and qPCR analyses revealed the presence of ckTPS genes in the flower transcriptome, responsible for the synthesis of various compounds such as geraniol, germacrene, kaurene, linalool, nerolidol, trans-ocimene and valencene. The leaf transcriptome exhibited genes related to the biosynthesis of kaurene and trans-ocimene. In the root, the identified unigenes were associated with synthesizing kaurene, trans-ocimene and valencene. Both analyses indicated that the genes involved in mono- and sesquiterpene biosynthesis are more highly expressed in the flower compared to the leaf and root. This comprehensive study provides valuable resources for future investigations aiming to unravel the essential oil-biosynthesis-related genes in the Convallaria genus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Seon-Joo Park
- Department of Life Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea;
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Salim V, Jarecki SA, Vick M, Miller R. Advances in Metabolic Engineering of Plant Monoterpene Indole Alkaloids. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1056. [PMID: 37626942 PMCID: PMC10452178 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Monoterpene indole alkaloids (MIAs) encompass a diverse family of over 3000 plant natural products with a wide range of medical applications. Further utilizations of these compounds, however, are hampered due to low levels of abundance in their natural sources, causing difficult isolation and complex multi-steps in uneconomical chemical syntheses. Metabolic engineering of MIA biosynthesis in heterologous hosts is attractive, particularly for increasing the yield of natural products of interest and expanding their chemical diversity. Here, we review recent advances and strategies which have been adopted to engineer microbial and plant systems for the purpose of generating MIAs and discuss the current issues and future developments of manufacturing MIAs by synthetic biology approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vonny Salim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71115, USA; (S.-A.J.); (M.V.)
| | - Sara-Alexis Jarecki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71115, USA; (S.-A.J.); (M.V.)
| | - Marshall Vick
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71115, USA; (S.-A.J.); (M.V.)
| | - Ryan Miller
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health New Orleans, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
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12
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Conart C, Bomzan DP, Huang XQ, Bassard JE, Paramita SN, Saint-Marcoux D, Rius-Bony A, Hivert G, Anchisi A, Schaller H, Hamama L, Magnard JL, Lipko A, Swiezewska E, Jame P, Riveill G, Hibrand-Saint Oyant L, Rohmer M, Lewinsohn E, Dudareva N, Baudino S, Caissard JC, Boachon B. A cytosolic bifunctional geranyl/farnesyl diphosphate synthase provides MVA-derived GPP for geraniol biosynthesis in rose flowers. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2221440120. [PMID: 37126706 PMCID: PMC10175749 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2221440120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Geraniol derived from essential oils of various plant species is widely used in the cosmetic and perfume industries. It is also an essential trait of the pleasant smell of rose flowers. In contrast to other monoterpenes which are produced in plastids via the methyl erythritol phosphate pathway, geraniol biosynthesis in roses relies on cytosolic NUDX1 hydrolase which dephosphorylates geranyl diphosphate (GPP). However, the metabolic origin of cytosolic GPP remains unknown. By feeding Rosa chinensis "Old Blush" flowers with pathway-specific precursors and inhibitors, combined with metabolic profiling and functional characterization of enzymes in vitro and in planta, we show that geraniol is synthesized through the cytosolic mevalonate (MVA) pathway by a bifunctional geranyl/farnesyl diphosphate synthase, RcG/FPPS1, producing both GPP and farnesyl diphosphate (FPP). The downregulation and overexpression of RcG/FPPS1 in rose petals affected not only geraniol and germacrene D emissions but also dihydro-β-ionol, the latter due to metabolic cross talk of RcG/FPPS1-dependent isoprenoid intermediates trafficking from the cytosol to plastids. Phylogenetic analysis together with functional characterization of G/FPPS orthologs revealed that the G/FPPS activity is conserved among Rosaceae species. Site-directed mutagenesis and molecular dynamic simulations enabled to identify two conserved amino acids that evolved from ancestral FPPSs and contribute to GPP/FPP product specificity. Overall, this study elucidates the origin of the cytosolic GPP for NUDX1-dependent geraniol production, provides insights into the emergence of the RcG/FPPS1 GPPS activity from the ancestral FPPSs, and shows that RcG/FPPS1 plays a key role in the biosynthesis of volatile terpenoid compounds in rose flowers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corentin Conart
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
| | - Dikki Pedenla Bomzan
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
| | - Xing-Qi Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN47907-2063
| | - Jean-Etienne Bassard
- Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes du Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Propre de Recherche 2357, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg67084, France
| | - Saretta N. Paramita
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
| | - Denis Saint-Marcoux
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
| | - Aurélie Rius-Bony
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
| | - Gal Hivert
- Department of Vegetable Crops, Newe Ya’ar Research Center, Agricultural Research organization, The Volcani Center, Ramat Yishay30095, Israel
- Department of Vegetable Crops, The Robert Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot76100001, Israel
| | - Anthony Anchisi
- Université de Lyon, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Institut des Sciences Analytiques, UMR 5280, VilleurbanneF-69100, France
| | - Hubert Schaller
- Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes du Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Propre de Recherche 2357, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg67084, France
| | - Latifa Hamama
- Université d'Angers, Institut Agro, Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement, Institut de Recherche en Horticulture et Semences, Structure Fédérative de Recherche Qualité et Santé du Végétal, Angers49000, France
| | - Jean-Louis Magnard
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
| | - Agata Lipko
- Nalecz Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw02-109Poland
| | - Ewa Swiezewska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw02-106Poland
| | - Patrick Jame
- Université de Lyon, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Institut des Sciences Analytiques, UMR 5280, VilleurbanneF-69100, France
| | - Geneviève Riveill
- Université de Strasbourg, Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1131 Santé de la Vigne et Qualité du Vin,F-68000Colmar, France
| | - Laurence Hibrand-Saint Oyant
- Université d'Angers, Institut Agro, Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement, Institut de Recherche en Horticulture et Semences, Structure Fédérative de Recherche Qualité et Santé du Végétal, Angers49000, France
| | - Michel Rohmer
- Institut de Chimie de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg/Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7177, Institut Le Bel, Strasbourg67081, France
| | - Efraim Lewinsohn
- Department of Vegetable Crops, Newe Ya’ar Research Center, Agricultural Research organization, The Volcani Center, Ramat Yishay30095, Israel
- Department of Vegetable Crops, The Robert Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot76100001, Israel
| | - Natalia Dudareva
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN47907-2063
- Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN47907
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN47907-2010
| | - Sylvie Baudino
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
| | - Jean-Claude Caissard
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
| | - Benoît Boachon
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Laboratoire de Biotechnologies Végétales appliquées aux Plantes Aromatiques et Médicinales, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5079, Saint-EtienneF-42023, France
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Kortbeek RWJ, Galland MD, Muras A, Therezan R, Maia S, Haring MA, Schuurink RC, Bleeker PM. Genetic and physiological requirements for high-level sesquiterpene-production in tomato glandular trichomes. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1139274. [PMID: 36938050 PMCID: PMC10020594 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1139274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Type-VI glandular trichomes of wild tomato Solanum habrochaites PI127826 produce high levels of the sesquiterpene 7-epizingiberene and its derivatives, making the plant repellent and toxic to several pest insects and pathogens. How wild tomato trichomes achieve such high terpene production is still largely unknown. Here we show that a cross (F1) with a cultivated tomato produced only minute levels of 7-epizingiberene. In the F2-progeny, selected for the presence of the 7-epizingiberene biosynthesis genes, only three percent produced comparable amounts the wild parent, indicating this trait is recessive and multigenic. Moreover, trichome density alone did not explain the total levels of terpene levels found on the leaves. We selected F2 plants with the "high-production active-trichome phenotype" of PI127826, having trichomes producing about 150 times higher levels of terpenes than F2 individuals that displayed a "low-production lazy-trichome phenotype". Terpene quantities in trichomes of these F2 plants correlated with the volume of the storage cavity and shape of the gland. We found that trichome morphology is not a predetermined characteristic, but cavity volume rather depended on gland-cell metabolic activity. Inhibitor assays showed that the plastidial-precursor pathway (MEP) is fundamental for high-level production of both cytosolic as well as plastid-derived terpenes in tomato trichomes. Additionally, gene expression profiles of isolated secretory cells showed that key enzymes in the MEP pathway were higher expressed in active trichomes. We conclude that the MEP pathway is the primary precursor-supply route in wild tomato type-VI trichomes and that the high-production phenotype of the wild tomato trichome is indeed a multigenic trait.
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14
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Liu X, Zhang P, Zhao Q, Huang AC. Making small molecules in plants: A chassis for synthetic biology-based production of plant natural products. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 65:417-443. [PMID: 35852486 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plant natural products have been extensively exploited in food, medicine, flavor, cosmetic, renewable fuel, and other industrial sectors. Synthetic biology has recently emerged as a promising means for the cost-effective and sustainable production of natural products. Compared with engineering microbes for the production of plant natural products, the potential of plants as chassis for producing these compounds is underestimated, largely due to challenges encountered in engineering plants. Knowledge in plant engineering is instrumental for enabling the effective and efficient production of valuable phytochemicals in plants, and also paves the way for a more sustainable future agriculture. In this manuscript, we briefly recap the biosynthesis of plant natural products, focusing primarily on industrially important terpenoids, alkaloids, and phenylpropanoids. We further summarize the plant hosts and strategies that have been used to engineer the production of natural products. The challenges and opportunities of using plant synthetic biology to achieve rapid and scalable production of high-value plant natural products are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Design for Plant Cell Factory of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, SUSTech-PKU Institute of Plant and Food Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Peijun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Design for Plant Cell Factory of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, SUSTech-PKU Institute of Plant and Food Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Qiao Zhao
- Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology (SIAT), the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ancheng C Huang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Design for Plant Cell Factory of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, SUSTech-PKU Institute of Plant and Food Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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15
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Karalija E, Šamec D, Dahija S, Ibragić S. Plants strike back: Plant volatiles and their role in indirect defence against aphids. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2023; 175:e13850. [PMID: 36628570 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.13850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
As sessile organisms, plants have evolved different strategies to defend themselves against various biotic stressors. An important aspect of the complex response of plants to biotic stress is the emission of volatile compounds (VOCs), which are involved in direct and indirect plant defence mechanisms. Indirect plant defences include a range of plant traits that mediate defence against herbivores and play an important ecological role by not only utilising plants' own capabilities, but also signalling and attracting natural enemies of herbivores. Often the combination of volatiles emitted is specific to herbivores; they are consequently recognised by parasites and other predators, providing a clear link between the volatile signature and the prey. In this review, we focus on indirect plant defence and summarise current knowledge and perspectives on relationships between plants, aphids and parasitic wasps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erna Karalija
- Laboratory for Plant Physiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Dunja Šamec
- Department of Food Technology, University North, Koprivnica, Croatia
| | - Sabina Dahija
- Laboratory for Plant Physiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Saida Ibragić
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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16
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Palmer L, Chuang L, Siegmund M, Kunert M, Yamamoto K, Sonawane P, O'Connor SE. In vivo characterization of key iridoid biosynthesis pathway genes in catnip (Nepeta cataria). PLANTA 2022; 256:99. [PMID: 36222913 PMCID: PMC9556426 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-022-04012-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Using virus-induced gene silencing, we demonstrated that the enzymes GES, ISY, and MLPL are responsible for nepetalactone biosynthesis in Nepeta cataria. Nepetalactone is the main iridoid that is found in the Nepeta genus and is well-known for its psychoactive effect on house cats. Moreover, there is a burgeoning interest into the effect of nepetalactone on insects. Although the enzymes for nepetalactone biosynthesis have been biochemically assayed in vitro, validation of the role that these enzymes have in planta has not been demonstrated. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a silencing method that relies on transient transformation and is an approach that has been particularly successful when applied to a variety of non-model plants. Here, we use a recently designed visual-marker dependent VIGS system to demonstrate that the nepetalactone biosynthetic enzymes GES, ISY, and MLPL impact nepetalactone biosynthesis in Nepeta cataria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lira Palmer
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Ling Chuang
- Institute of Botany, Leibniz University Hannover, 30167, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marlen Siegmund
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Maritta Kunert
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Kotaro Yamamoto
- School of Science, Association of International Arts and Science, Yokohama City University, 22-2 Seto, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0027, Japan
| | - Prashant Sonawane
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Sarah E O'Connor
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, 07743, Jena, Germany.
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17
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Dudley QM, Jo S, Guerrero DAS, Chhetry M, Smedley MA, Harwood WA, Sherden NH, O'Connor SE, Caputi L, Patron NJ. Reconstitution of monoterpene indole alkaloid biosynthesis in genome engineered Nicotiana benthamiana. Commun Biol 2022; 5:949. [PMID: 36088516 PMCID: PMC9464250 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03904-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoterpene indole alkaloids (MIAs) are a diverse class of plant natural products that include a number of medicinally important compounds. We set out to reconstitute the pathway for strictosidine, a key intermediate of all MIAs, from central metabolism in Nicotiana benthamiana. A disadvantage of this host is that its rich background metabolism results in the derivatization of some heterologously produced molecules. Here we use transcriptomic analysis to identify glycosyltransferases that are upregulated in response to biosynthetic intermediates and produce plant lines with targeted mutations in the genes encoding them. Expression of the early MIA pathway in these lines produces a more favorable product profile. Strictosidine biosynthesis was successfully reconstituted, with the best yields obtained by the co-expression of 14 enzymes, of which a major latex protein-like enzyme (MLPL) from Nepeta (catmint) is critical for improving flux through the iridoid pathway. The removal of endogenous glycosyltransferases does not impact the yields of strictosidine, highlighting that the metabolic flux of the pathway enzymes to a stable biosynthetic intermediate minimizes the need to engineer the endogenous metabolism of the host. The production of strictosidine in planta expands the range of MIA products amenable to biological synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin M Dudley
- Engineering Biology, Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7UZ, UK
| | - Seohyun Jo
- Engineering Biology, Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7UZ, UK
| | - Delia Ayled Serna Guerrero
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, 07745, Germany
| | - Monika Chhetry
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Mark A Smedley
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Wendy A Harwood
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Nathaniel H Sherden
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
- Octagon Therapeutics Ltd, 700 Main Street, North Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Sarah E O'Connor
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, 07745, Germany
| | - Lorenzo Caputi
- Department of Natural Product Biosynthesis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, 07745, Germany.
| | - Nicola J Patron
- Engineering Biology, Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7UZ, UK.
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Khodavirdipour A, Safaralizadeh R, Haghi M, Hosseinpourfeizi MA. Comparative de novo transcriptome analysis of flower and root of Oliveria decumbens Vent. to identify putative genes in terpenes biosynthesis pathway. Front Genet 2022; 13:916183. [PMID: 35991569 PMCID: PMC9386285 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.916183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Oliveria decumbens Vent. is a wild, rare, annual medicinal plant and endemic plant of Iran that has metabolites (mostly terpenes) which make it a precious plant in Persian Traditional Medicine and also a potential chemotherapeutic agent. The lack of genetic resources has slowed the discovery of genes involved in the terpenes biosynthesis pathway. It is a wild relative of Daucus carota. In this research, we performed the transcriptomic differences between two samples, flower and root of Oliveria decumbens, and also analyze the expression value of the genes involved in terpenoid biosynthesis by RNA-seq and its essential oil’s phytochemicals analyzed by GC/MS. In total, 136,031,188 reads from two samples of flower and root have been produced. The result shows that the MEP pathway is mostly active in the flower and the MVA in the root. Three genes of GPP, FPPS, and GGPP that are the precursors in the synthesis of mono, di, and triterpenes are upregulated in root and 23 key genes were identified that are involved in the biosynthesis of terpenes. Three genes had the highest upregulation in the root including, and on the other hand, another three genes had the expression only in the flower. Meanwhile, 191 and 185 upregulated genes in the flower and root of the plant, respectively, were selected for the gene ontology analysis and reconstruction of co-expression networks. The current research is the first of its kind on Oliveria decumbens transcriptome and discussed 67 genes that have been deposited into the NCBI database. Collectively, the information obtained in this study unveils the new insights into characterizing the genetic blueprint of Oliveria decumbens Vent. which paved the way for medical/plant biotechnology and the pharmaceutical industry in the future.
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Sirirungruang S, Markel K, Shih PM. Plant-based engineering for production of high-valued natural products. Nat Prod Rep 2022; 39:1492-1509. [PMID: 35674317 DOI: 10.1039/d2np00017b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Covering: up to March 2022Plants are a unique source of complex specialized metabolites, many of which play significant roles in human society. In many cases, however, the availability of these metabolites from naturally occurring sources fails to meet current demands. Thus, there is much interest in expanding the production capacity of target plant molecules. Traditionally, plant breeding, chemical synthesis, and microbial fermentation are considered the primary routes towards large scale production of natural products. Here, we explore the advances, challenges, and future of plant engineering as a complementary path. Although plants are an integral part of our food and agricultural systems and sustain an extensive array of chemical constituents, their complex genetics and physiology have prevented the optimal exploitation of plants as a production chassis. We highlight emerging engineering tools and scientific advances developed in recent years that have improved the prospects of using plants as a sustainable and scalable production platform. We also discuss technological limitations and overall economic outlook of plant-based production of natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasilada Sirirungruang
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Feedstocks Division, Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, CA, USA.,Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Center for Biomolecular Structure, Function and Application, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Kasey Markel
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Feedstocks Division, Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, CA, USA.,Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Patrick M Shih
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA. .,Feedstocks Division, Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, CA, USA.,Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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Shivanand P, Arbie NF, Krishnamoorthy S, Ahmad N. Agarwood-The Fragrant Molecules of a Wounded Tree. Molecules 2022; 27:3386. [PMID: 35684324 PMCID: PMC9181942 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Agarwood, popularly known as oudh or gaharu, is a fragrant resinous wood of high commercial value, traded worldwide and primarily used for its distinctive fragrance in incense, perfumes, and medicine. This fragrant wood is created when Aquilaria trees are wounded and infected by fungi, producing resin as a defense mechanism. The depletion of natural agarwood caused by overharvesting amidst increasing demand has caused this fragrant defensive resin of endangered Aquilaria to become a rare and valuable commodity. Given that instances of natural infection are quite low, artificial induction, including biological inoculation, is being conducted to induce agarwood formation. A long-term investigation could unravel insights contributing toward Aquilaria being sustainably cultivated. This review will look at the different methods of induction, including physical, chemical, and biological, and compare the production, yield, and quality of such treatments with naturally formed agarwood. Pharmaceutical properties and medicinal benefits of fragrance-associated compounds such as chromones and terpenoids are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Shivanand
- Environmental and Life Sciences Program, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei; (N.F.A.); (N.A.)
| | - Nurul Fadhila Arbie
- Environmental and Life Sciences Program, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei; (N.F.A.); (N.A.)
| | - Sarayu Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Civil Engineering, Environmental Water Resources Engineering Division, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600 036, India;
| | - Norhayati Ahmad
- Environmental and Life Sciences Program, Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei; (N.F.A.); (N.A.)
- Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tunku Link, Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei
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21
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Ma LT, Liu PL, Cheng YT, Shiu TF, Chu FH. Unveiling Monoterpene Biosynthesis in Taiwania cryptomerioides via Functional Characterization. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10112404. [PMID: 34834767 PMCID: PMC8625326 DOI: 10.3390/plants10112404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Taiwania cryptomerioides is a monotypic species, and its terpenoid-rich property has been reported in recent years. To uncover monoterpene biosynthesis in T. cryptomerioides, this study used transcriptome mining to identify candidates with tentative monoterpene synthase activity. Along with the phylogenetic analysis and in vitro assay, two geraniol synthases (TcTPS13 and TcTPS14), a linalool synthase (TcTPS15), and a β-pinene synthase (TcTPS16), were functionally characterized. Via the comparison of catalytic residues, the Cys/Ser at region 1 might be crucial in determining the formation of α-pinene or β-pinene. In addition, the Cupressaceae monoterpene synthases were phylogenetically clustered together; they are unique and different from those of published conifer species. In summary, this study aimed to uncover the ambiguous monoterpenoid network in T. cryptomerioide, which would expand the landscape of monoterpene biosynthesis in Cupressaceae species.
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22
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Dudley QM, Cai YM, Kallam K, Debreyne H, Carrasco Lopez JA, Patron NJ. Biofoundry-assisted expression and characterization of plant proteins. Synth Biol (Oxf) 2021; 6:ysab029. [PMID: 34693026 PMCID: PMC8529701 DOI: 10.1093/synbio/ysab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Many goals in synthetic biology, including the elucidation and refactoring of biosynthetic pathways and the engineering of regulatory circuits and networks, require knowledge of protein function. In plants, the prevalence of large gene families means it can be particularly challenging to link specific functions to individual proteins. However, protein characterization has remained a technical bottleneck, often requiring significant effort to optimize expression and purification protocols. To leverage the ability of biofoundries to accelerate design-built-test-learn cycles, we present a workflow for automated DNA assembly and cell-free expression of plant proteins that accelerates optimization and enables rapid screening of enzyme activity. First, we developed a phytobrick-compatible Golden Gate DNA assembly toolbox containing plasmid acceptors for cell-free expression using Escherichia coli or wheat germ lysates as well as a set of N- and C-terminal tag parts for detection, purification and improved expression/folding. We next optimized automated assembly of miniaturized cell-free reactions using an acoustic liquid handling platform and then compared tag configurations to identify those that increase expression. We additionally developed a luciferase-based system for rapid quantification that requires a minimal 11-amino acid tag and demonstrate facile removal of tags following synthesis. Finally, we show that several functional assays can be performed with cell-free protein synthesis reactions without the need for protein purification. Together, the combination of automated assembly of DNA parts and cell-free expression reactions should significantly increase the throughput of experiments to test and understand plant protein function and enable the direct reuse of DNA parts in downstream plant engineering workflows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin M Dudley
- Engineering Biology, Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk UK
| | - Yao-Min Cai
- Engineering Biology, Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk UK
| | - Kalyani Kallam
- Engineering Biology, Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk UK
| | - Hubert Debreyne
- Engineering Biology, Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk UK
| | | | - Nicola J Patron
- Engineering Biology, Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk UK
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23
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Evolution-aided engineering of plant specialized metabolism. ABIOTECH 2021; 2:240-263. [PMID: 36303885 PMCID: PMC9590541 DOI: 10.1007/s42994-021-00052-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The evolution of new traits in living organisms occurs via the processes of mutation, recombination, genetic drift, and selection. These processes that have resulted in the immense biological diversity on our planet are also being employed in metabolic engineering to optimize enzymes and pathways, create new-to-nature reactions, and synthesize complex natural products in heterologous systems. In this review, we discuss two evolution-aided strategies for metabolic engineering-directed evolution, which improves upon existing genetic templates using the evolutionary process, and combinatorial pathway reconstruction, which brings together genes evolved in different organisms into a single heterologous host. We discuss the general principles of these strategies, describe the technologies involved and the molecular traits they influence, provide examples of their use, and discuss the roadblocks that need to be addressed for their wider adoption. A better understanding of these strategies can provide an impetus to research on gene function discovery and biochemical evolution, which is foundational for improved metabolic engineering. These evolution-aided approaches thus have a substantial potential for improving our understanding of plant metabolism in general, for enhancing the production of plant metabolites, and in sustainable agriculture.
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24
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Bergman ME, Bhardwaj M, Phillips MA. Cytosolic geraniol and citronellol biosynthesis require a Nudix hydrolase in rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens). THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 107:493-510. [PMID: 33949016 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.15304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Geraniol, citronellol and their esters are high-value acyclic monoterpenes used in food technology, perfumery and cosmetics. A major source of these compounds is the essential oil of rose-scented geraniums of the genus Pelargonium. We provide evidence that their biosynthesis mainly takes place in the cytosol of glandular trichomes via geranyl monophosphate (GP) through the action of a Nudix hydrolase. Protein preparations could convert geranyl diphosphate (GDP) to geraniol in in vitro assays, a process which could be blocked by inorganic phosphatase inhibitors, suggesting a two-step conversion of GDP to geraniol. Pelargonium graveolens chemotypes enriched in either geraniol or (-)-citronellol accumulate GP or citronellyl monophosphate (CP), respectively, the presumed precursors to their monoterpenoid end products. Geranyl monophosphate was highly enriched in isolated glandular trichomes of lines producing high amounts of geraniol. In contrast, (-)-isomenthone-rich lines are depleted in these prenyl monophosphates and monoterpene alcohols and instead feature high levels of GDP, the precursor to plastidic p-menthane biosynthesis. A Nudix hydrolase cDNA from Pelargonium glandular trichomes, dubbed PgNdx1, encoded a cytosolic protein capable of hydrolyzing GDP to GP with a KM of about 750 nm but is only weakly active towards farnesyl diphosphate. In citronellol-rich lines, GDP, GP and CP were detected in nearly equimolar amounts, while citronellyl diphosphate was absent, suggesting that citronellol biosynthesis may proceed by reduction of GP to CP in this species. These findings highlight the cytosol as a compartment that supports monoterpene biosynthesis and expands the roles of Nudix hydrolases in the biosynthesis of plant volatiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E Bergman
- Department of Cellular and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Mridula Bhardwaj
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto-Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Michael A Phillips
- Department of Cellular and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G5, Canada
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto-Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
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25
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Liang D, Li W, Yan X, Caiyin Q, Zhao G, Qiao J. Molecular and Functional Evolution of the Spermatophyte Sesquiterpene Synthases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126348. [PMID: 34198531 PMCID: PMC8232007 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sesquiterpenes are important defense and signal molecules for plants to adapt to the environment, cope with stress, and communicate with the outside world, and their evolutionary history is closely related to physiological functions. In this study, the information of plant sesquiterpene synthases (STSs) with identified functions were collected and sorted to form a dataset containing about 500 members. The phylogeny of spermatophyte functional STSs was constructed based on the structural comparative analysis to reveal the sequence–structure–function relationships. We propose the evolutionary history of plant sesquiterpene skeletons, from chain structure to small rings, followed by large rings for the first time and put forward a more detailed function-driven hypothesis. Then, the evolutionary origins and history of spermatophyte STSs are also discussed. In addition, three newly identified STSs CaSTS2, CaSTS3, and CaSTS4 were analyzed in this functional evolutionary system, and their germacrene D products were consistent with the functional prediction. This demonstrates an application of the structure-based phylogeny in predicting STS function. This work will help us to understand evolutionary patterns and dynamics of plant sesquiterpenes and STSs and screen or design STSs with specific product profiles as functional elements for synthetic biology application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (D.L.); (W.L.); (X.Y.); (Q.C.); (G.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300072, China
- SynBio Research Platform, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Weiguo Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (D.L.); (W.L.); (X.Y.); (Q.C.); (G.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300072, China
- SynBio Research Platform, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Xiaoguang Yan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (D.L.); (W.L.); (X.Y.); (Q.C.); (G.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300072, China
- SynBio Research Platform, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Qinggele Caiyin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (D.L.); (W.L.); (X.Y.); (Q.C.); (G.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300072, China
- SynBio Research Platform, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Guangrong Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (D.L.); (W.L.); (X.Y.); (Q.C.); (G.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300072, China
- SynBio Research Platform, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Jianjun Qiao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (D.L.); (W.L.); (X.Y.); (Q.C.); (G.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300072, China
- SynBio Research Platform, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300072, China
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300072, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-22-8740-2107
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26
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De La Peña R, Sattely ES. Rerouting plant terpene biosynthesis enables momilactone pathway elucidation. Nat Chem Biol 2021; 17:205-212. [PMID: 33106662 PMCID: PMC7990393 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-020-00669-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Momilactones from rice have allelopathic activity, the ability to inhibit growth of competing plants. Transferring momilactone production to other crops is a potential approach to combat weeds, yet a complete momilactone biosynthetic pathway remains elusive. Here, we address this challenge through rapid gene screening in Nicotiana benthamiana, a heterologous plant host. This required us to solve a central problem: diminishing intermediate and product yields remain a bottleneck for multistep diterpene pathways. We increased intermediate and product titers by rerouting diterpene biosynthesis from the chloroplast to the cytosolic, high-flux mevalonate pathway. This enabled the discovery and reconstitution of a complete route to momilactones (>10-fold yield improvement in production versus rice). Pure momilactone B isolated from N. benthamiana inhibited germination and root growth in Arabidopsis thaliana, validating allelopathic activity. We demonstrated the broad utility of this approach by applying it to forskolin, a Hedgehog inhibitor, and taxadiene, an intermediate in taxol biosynthesis (~10-fold improvement in production versus chloroplast expression).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo De La Peña
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Sattely
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford, CA, USA.
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27
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Lynch JH, Huang XQ, Dudareva N. Silent constraints: the hidden challenges faced in plant metabolic engineering. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 69:112-117. [PMID: 33429160 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic engineering is embraced as a method to sustainably enhance production of valuable phytochemicals with beneficial properties. However, successful production of these compounds in plants is not always predictable even when the pathways are fully known, frequently due to the lack of comprehensive understanding of plant metabolism as a whole, and interconnections between different primary, secondary, and hormone metabolic networks. Here, we highlight critical hidden constraints, including substrate availability, silent metabolism, and metabolic crosstalk, that impair engineering strategies. We explore how these constraints have historically been manifested in engineering attempts and propose how modern advancements will enable future strategies to overcome these impediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph H Lynch
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, 175 South University St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2063, USA; Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Xing-Qi Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, 175 South University St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2063, USA; Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Natalia Dudareva
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, 175 South University St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2063, USA; Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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28
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Eljounaidi K, Lichman BR. Nature's Chemists: The Discovery and Engineering of Phytochemical Biosynthesis. Front Chem 2020; 8:596479. [PMID: 33240856 PMCID: PMC7680914 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.596479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Plants produce a diverse array of natural products, many of which have high pharmaceutical value or therapeutic potential. However, these compounds often occur at low concentrations in uncultivated species. Producing phytochemicals in heterologous systems has the potential to address the bioavailability issues related to obtaining these molecules from their natural source. Plants are suitable heterologous systems for the production of valuable phytochemicals as they are autotrophic, derive energy and carbon from photosynthesis, and have similar cellular context to native producer plants. In this review we highlight the methods that are used to elucidate natural product biosynthetic pathways, including the approaches leading to proposing the sequence of enzymatic steps, selecting enzyme candidates and characterizing gene function. We will also discuss the advantages of using plant chasses as production platforms for high value phytochemicals. In addition, through this report we will assess the emerging metabolic engineering strategies that have been developed to enhance and optimize the production of natural and novel bioactive phytochemicals in heterologous plant systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaouthar Eljounaidi
- Centre for Novel Agricultural Products, Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin R Lichman
- Centre for Novel Agricultural Products, Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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29
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Wang PY, Ni R, Zhu TT, Sun CJ, Lou HX, Zhang X, Cheng AX. Isolation and functional characterization of four microbial type terpene synthases from ferns. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2020; 155:716-724. [PMID: 32862021 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2020.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Typical plant terpene synthases (TPSs) are responsible for the production of terpenes, a major class of plant secondary metabolites. However, various nonseed plants also harbor genes encoding microbial terpene synthase-like (MTPSL) enzymes. Here, a scan of 31 ferns transcriptomes revealed 40 sequences putatively encoding MTPSLs. Two groups of sequences were recognized based on the key conserved motifs. Four representative genes were isolated from each of the four species Adiantum capillus-veneris, Cyclosorus parasiticus, Drynaria bonii and Microlepia platyphylla. Following their heterologous expression in E. coli, the recombinant proteins were tested for monoterpene synthase and sesquiterpene synthase activity. These enzymatic products were typical monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes that have been previous shown to be generated by classical plant TPSs when provided with GPP and FPP as substrates. Subcellular localization experiments in the leaf epidermis of Nicotiana benthamiana and onion (Allium cepa) inner epidermal cells indicated that AcMTPSL1 and DbMTPSL were deposited in both the cytoplasm and nucleus, whereas CpMTPSL1 and MpMTPSL were localized in the cytoplasm, chloroplasts and nucleus. AcMTPSL1 was up-regulated in plants exposed to methyl jasmonate treatment, suggesting a role for this gene in host defense. This study provides more information about the catalytic function of MTPSLs in nonseed plants and for the first time, the subcellular localization of MTPSLs was experimentally characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piao-Yi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Rong Ni
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Ting-Ting Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Chun-Jing Sun
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Hong-Xiang Lou
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xuebin Zhang
- Henan Joint International Laboratory for Crop Multi-Omics Research, State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Adaptation and Improvement, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475001, China.
| | - Ai-Xia Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
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30
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Luck K, Chen X, Norris AM, Chen F, Gershenzon J, Köllner TG. The reconstruction and biochemical characterization of ancestral genes furnish insights into the evolution of terpene synthase function in the Poaceae. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 104:203-215. [PMID: 32683610 PMCID: PMC7417412 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-020-01037-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Distinct catalytic features of the Poaceae TPS-a subfamily arose early in grass evolution and the reactions catalyzed have become more complex with time. The structural diversity of terpenes found in nature is mainly determined by terpene synthases (TPS). TPS enzymes accept ubiquitous prenyl diphosphates as substrates and convert them into the various terpene skeletons by catalyzing a carbocation-driven reaction. Based on their sequence similarity, terpene synthases from land plants can be divided into different subfamilies, TPS-a to TPS-h. In this study, we aimed to understand the evolution and functional diversification of the TPS-a subfamily in the Poaceae (the grass family), a plant family that contains important crops such as maize, wheat, rice, and sorghum. Sequence comparisons showed that aside from one clade shared with other monocot plants, the Poaceae TPS-a subfamily consists of five well-defined clades I-V, the common ancestor of which probably originated very early in the evolution of the grasses. A survey of the TPS literature and the characterization of representative TPS enzymes from clades I-III revealed clade-specific substrate and product specificities. The enzymes in both clade I and II function as sesquiterpene synthases with clade I enzymes catalyzing initial C10-C1 or C11-C1 ring closures and clade II enzymes catalyzing C6-C1 closures. The enzymes of clade III mainly act as monoterpene synthases, forming cyclic and acyclic monoterpenes. The reconstruction and characterization of clade ancestors demonstrated that the differences among clades I-III were already present in their ancestors. However, the ancestors generally catalyzed simpler reactions with less double-bond isomerization and fewer cyclization steps. Overall, our data indicate an early origin of key enzymatic features of TPS-a enzymes in the Poaceae, and the development of more complex reactions over the course of evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Luck
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll Straße 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Xinlu Chen
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
| | - Ayla M. Norris
- Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
- Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA
| | - Jonathan Gershenzon
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll Straße 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Tobias G. Köllner
- Department of Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll Straße 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
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31
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Metabolic Engineering of the Native Monoterpene Pathway in Spearmint for Production of Heterologous Monoterpenes Reveals Complex Metabolism and Pathway Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176164. [PMID: 32859057 PMCID: PMC7504178 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spearmint produces and stores large amounts of monoterpenes, mainly limonene and carvone, in glandular trichomes and is the major natural source of these compounds. Towards producing heterologous monoterpenes in spearmint, we first reduced the flux into the native limonene pathway by knocking down the expression of limonene synthase (MsLS) by RNAi method. The MsLS RNAi lines exhibited a huge reduction in the synthesis of limonene and carvone. Detailed GC-MS and LC-MS analysis revealed that MsLS RNAi plants also showed an increase in sesquiterpene, phytosterols, fatty acids, flavonoids, and phenolic metabolites, suggesting an interaction between the MEP, MVA shikimate and fatty acid pathways in spearmint. Three different heterologous monoterpene synthases namely, linalool synthase and myrcene synthase from Picea abies and geraniol synthase from Cananga odorata were cloned and introduced independently into the MsLS RNAi mutant background. The expression of these heterologous terpene synthases resulted mainly in production of monoterpene derivatives. Of all the introduced monoterpenes geraniol showed the maximum number of derivatives. Our results provide new insights into MEP pathway interactions and regulation and reveals the existence of mechanisms for complex metabolism of monoterpenes in spearmint.
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32
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Kumar SR, Rai A, Bomzan DP, Kumar K, Hemmerlin A, Dwivedi V, Godbole RC, Barvkar V, Shanker K, Shilpashree HB, Bhattacharya A, Smitha AR, Hegde N, Nagegowda DA. A plastid-localized bona fide geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase plays a necessary role in monoterpene indole alkaloid biosynthesis in Catharanthus roseus. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 103:248-265. [PMID: 32064705 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.14725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
In plants, geranylgeranyl diphosphate (GGPP, C20 ) synthesized by GGPP synthase (GGPPS) serves as precursor for vital metabolic branches including specialized metabolites. Here, we report the characterization of a GGPPS (CrGGPPS2) from the Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) and demonstrate its role in monoterpene (C10 )-indole alkaloids (MIA) biosynthesis. The expression of CrGGPPS2 was not induced in response to methyl jasmonate (MeJA), and was similar to the gene encoding type-I protein geranylgeranyltransferase_β subunit (CrPGGT-I_β), which modulates MIA formation in C. roseus cell cultures. Recombinant CrGGPPS2 exhibited a bona fide GGPPS activity by catalyzing the formation of GGPP as the sole product. Co-localization of fluorescent protein fusions clearly showed CrGGPPS2 was targeted to plastids. Downregulation of CrGGPPS2 by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) significantly decreased the expression of transcription factors and pathway genes related to MIA biosynthesis, resulting in reduced MIA. Chemical complementation of CrGGPPS2-vigs leaves with geranylgeraniol (GGol, alcoholic form of GGPP) restored the negative effects of CrGGPPS2 silencing on MIA biosynthesis. In contrast to VIGS, transient and stable overexpression of CrGGPPS2 enhanced the MIA biosynthesis. Interestingly, VIGS and transgenic-overexpression of CrGGPPS2 had no effect on the main GGPP-derived metabolites, cholorophylls and carotenoids in C. roseus leaves. Moreover, silencing of CrPGGT-I_β, similar to CrGGPPS2-vigs, negatively affected the genes related to MIA biosynthesis resulting in reduced MIA. Overall, this study demonstrated that plastidial CrGGPPS2 plays an indirect but necessary role in MIA biosynthesis. We propose that CrGGPPS2 might be involved in providing GGPP for modifying proteins of the signaling pathway involved in MIA biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarma Rajeev Kumar
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
| | - Avanish Rai
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
| | - Dikki Pedenla Bomzan
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi, India
| | - Krishna Kumar
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
| | - Andréa Hemmerlin
- Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 12 rue du Général Zimmer, 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Varun Dwivedi
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
| | - Rucha C Godbole
- Department of Botany, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 4110077, India
| | - Vitthal Barvkar
- Department of Botany, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 4110077, India
| | - Karuna Shanker
- Analytical Chemistry Department, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, P.O. CIMAP, Lucknow, 226015, India
| | - H B Shilpashree
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
| | - Ankita Bhattacharya
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
| | - Attibele Ramamurthy Smitha
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
| | - Namratha Hegde
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
| | - Dinesh A Nagegowda
- Molecular Plant Biology and Biotechnology Lab, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Research Centre, Bengaluru, 560065, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi, India
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Patron NJ. Beyond natural: synthetic expansions of botanical form and function. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2020; 227:295-310. [PMID: 32239523 PMCID: PMC7383487 DOI: 10.1111/nph.16562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Powered by developments that enabled genome-scale investigations, systems biology emerged as a field aiming to understand how phenotypes emerge from network functions. These advances fuelled a new engineering discipline focussed on synthetic reconstructions of complex biological systems with the goal of predictable rational design and control. Initially, progress in the nascent field of synthetic biology was slow due to the ad hoc nature of molecular biology methods such as cloning. The application of engineering principles such as standardisation, together with several key technical advances, enabled a revolution in the speed and accuracy of genetic manipulation. Combined with mathematical and statistical modelling, this has improved the predictability of engineering biological systems of which nonlinearity and stochasticity are intrinsic features leading to remarkable achievements in biotechnology as well as novel insights into biological function. In the past decade, there has been slow but steady progress in establishing foundations for synthetic biology in plant systems. Recently, this has enabled model-informed rational design to be successfully applied to the engineering of plant gene regulation and metabolism. Synthetic biology is now poised to transform the potential of plant biotechnology. However, reaching full potential will require conscious adjustments to the skillsets and mind sets of plant scientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J. Patron
- Engineering BiologyEarlham InstituteNorwich Research Park, NorwichNorfolkNR4 7UZUK
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Jongedijk E, Müller S, van Dijk ADJ, Schijlen E, Champagne A, Boutry M, Levisson M, van der Krol S, Bouwmeester H, Beekwilder J. Novel routes towards bioplastics from plants: elucidation of the methylperillate biosynthesis pathway from Salvia dorisiana trichomes. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2020; 71:3052-3065. [PMID: 32090266 PMCID: PMC7260718 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/eraa086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Plants produce a large variety of highly functionalized terpenoids. Functional groups such as partially unsaturated rings and carboxyl groups provide handles to use these compounds as feedstock for biobased commodity chemicals. For instance, methylperillate, a monoterpenoid found in Salvia dorisiana, may be used for this purpose, as it carries both an unsaturated ring and a methylated carboxyl group. The biosynthetic pathway of methylperillate in plants is still unclear. In this work, we identified glandular trichomes from S. dorisiana as the location of biosynthesis and storage of methylperillate. mRNA from purified trichomes was used to identify four genes that can encode the pathway from geranyl diphosphate towards methylperillate. This pathway includes a (-)-limonene synthase (SdLS), a limonene 7-hydroxylase (SdL7H, CYP71A76), and a perillyl alcohol dehydrogenase (SdPOHDH). We also identified a terpene acid methyltransferase, perillic acid O-methyltransferase (SdPAOMT), with homology to salicylic acid OMTs. Transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana of these four genes, in combination with a geranyl diphosphate synthase to boost precursor formation, resulted in production of methylperillate. This demonstrates the potential of these enzymes for metabolic engineering of a feedstock for biobased commodity chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmer Jongedijk
- Wageningen University, Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Müller
- Wageningen University, Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Aalt D J van Dijk
- Bioinformatics Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Biometris, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Elio Schijlen
- Wageningen Plant Research, 6700 AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Antoine Champagne
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, University of Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Arrhenius laboratories, Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marc Boutry
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, University of Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Mark Levisson
- Wageningen University, Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sander van der Krol
- Wageningen University, Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harro Bouwmeester
- Wageningen University, Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Plant Hormone Biology Group, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam (UVA), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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35
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Lin CY, Eudes A. Strategies for the production of biochemicals in bioenergy crops. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2020; 13:71. [PMID: 32318116 PMCID: PMC7158082 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-020-01707-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Industrial crops are grown to produce goods for manufacturing. Rather than food and feed, they supply raw materials for making biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemicals, as well as feedstocks for fabricating fiber, biopolymer, and construction materials. Therefore, such crops offer the potential to reduce our dependency on petrochemicals that currently serve as building blocks for manufacturing the majority of our industrial and consumer products. In this review, we are providing examples of metabolites synthesized in plants that can be used as bio-based platform chemicals for partial replacement of their petroleum-derived counterparts. Plant metabolic engineering approaches aiming at increasing the content of these metabolites in biomass are presented. In particular, we emphasize on recent advances in the manipulation of the shikimate and isoprenoid biosynthetic pathways, both of which being the source of multiple valuable compounds. Implementing and optimizing engineered metabolic pathways for accumulation of coproducts in bioenergy crops may represent a valuable option for enhancing the commercial value of biomass and attaining sustainable lignocellulosic biorefineries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Yuan Lin
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, CA 94608 USA
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
| | - Aymerick Eudes
- Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, CA 94608 USA
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA
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36
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On the Evolution and Functional Diversity of Terpene Synthases in the Pinus Species: A Review. J Mol Evol 2020; 88:253-283. [PMID: 32036402 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-020-09930-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
In the biosynthesis of terpenoids, the ample catalytic versatility of terpene synthases (TPS) allows the formation of thousands of different molecules. A steadily increasing number of sequenced plant genomes invariably show that the TPS gene family is medium to large in size, comprising from 30 to 100 functional members. In conifers, TPSs belonging to the gymnosperm-specific TPS-d subfamily produce a complex mixture of mono-, sesqui-, and diterpenoid specialized metabolites, which are found in volatile emissions and oleoresin secretions. Such substances are involved in the defence against pathogens and herbivores and can help to protect against abiotic stress. Oleoresin terpenoids can be also profitably used in a number of different fields, from traditional and modern medicine to fine chemicals, fragrances, and flavours, and, in the last years, in biorefinery too. In the present work, after summarizing the current views on the biosynthesis and biological functions of terpenoids, recent advances on the evolution and functional diversification of plant TPSs are reviewed, with a focus on gymnosperms. In such context, an extensive characterization and phylogeny of all the known TPSs from different Pinus species is reported, which, for such genus, can be seen as the first effort to explore the evolutionary history of the large family of TPS genes involved in specialized metabolism. Finally, an approach is described in which the phylogeny of TPSs in Pinus spp. has been exploited to isolate for the first time mono-TPS sequences from Pinus nigra subsp. laricio, an ecologically important endemic pine in the Mediterranean area.
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Hansen NL, Miettinen K, Zhao Y, Ignea C, Andreadelli A, Raadam MH, Makris AM, Møller BL, Stærk D, Bak S, Kampranis SC. Integrating pathway elucidation with yeast engineering to produce polpunonic acid the precursor of the anti-obesity agent celastrol. Microb Cell Fact 2020; 19:15. [PMID: 31992268 PMCID: PMC6988343 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-020-1284-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Celastrol is a promising anti-obesity agent that acts as a sensitizer of the protein hormone leptin. Despite its potent activity, a sustainable source of celastrol and celastrol derivatives for further pharmacological studies is lacking. RESULTS To elucidate the celastrol biosynthetic pathway and reconstruct it in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we mined a root-transcriptome of Tripterygium wilfordii and identified four oxidosqualene cyclases and 49 cytochrome P450s as candidates to be involved in the early steps of celastrol biosynthesis. Using functional screening of the candidate genes in Nicotiana benthamiana, TwOSC4 was characterized as a novel oxidosqualene cyclase that produces friedelin, the presumed triterpenoid backbone of celastrol. In addition, three P450s (CYP712K1, CYP712K2, and CYP712K3) that act downstream of TwOSC4 were found to effectively oxidize friedelin and form the likely celastrol biosynthesis intermediates 29-hydroxy-friedelin and polpunonic acid. To facilitate production of friedelin, the yeast strain AM254 was constructed by deleting UBC7, which afforded a fivefold increase in friedelin titer. This platform was further expanded with CYP712K1 to produce polpunonic acid and a method for the facile extraction of products from the yeast culture medium, resulting in polpunonic acid titers of 1.4 mg/L. CONCLUSION Our study elucidates the early steps of celastrol biosynthesis and paves the way for future biotechnological production of this pharmacologically promising compound in engineered yeast strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaj L Hansen
- Plant Biochemistry Section, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Karel Miettinen
- Plant Biochemistry Section, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Yong Zhao
- Plant Biochemistry Section, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Codruta Ignea
- Plant Biochemistry Section, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Aggeliki Andreadelli
- Institute of Applied Biosciences-Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (INAB-CERTH), P.O. Box 60361, 57001, Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Morten H Raadam
- Plant Biochemistry Section, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Antonios M Makris
- Institute of Applied Biosciences-Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (INAB-CERTH), P.O. Box 60361, 57001, Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Birger L Møller
- Plant Biochemistry Section, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Dan Stærk
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Bak
- Plant Biochemistry Section, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | - Sotirios C Kampranis
- Plant Biochemistry Section, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
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Sun G, Strebl M, Merz M, Blamberg R, Huang FC, McGraphery K, Hoffmann T, Schwab W. Glucosylation of the phytoalexin N-feruloyl tyramine modulates the levels of pathogen-responsive metabolites in Nicotiana benthamiana. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 100:20-37. [PMID: 31124249 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.14420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Enzyme promiscuity, a common property of many uridine diphosphate sugar-dependent glycosyltransferases (UGTs) that convert small molecules, significantly hinders the identification of natural substrates and therefore the characterization of the physiological role of enzymes. In this paper we present a simple but effective strategy to identify endogenous substrates of plant UGTs using LC-MS-guided targeted glycoside analysis of transgenic plants. We successfully identified natural substrates of two promiscuous Nicotiana benthamiana UGTs (NbUGT73A24 and NbUGT73A25), orthologues of pathogen-induced tobacco UGT (TOGT) from Nicotiana tabacum, which is involved in the hypersensitive reaction. While in N. tabacum, TOGT glucosylated scopoletin after treatment with salicylate, fungal elicitors and the tobacco mosaic virus, NbUGT73A24 and NbUGT73A25 produced glucosides of phytoalexin N-feruloyl tyramine, which may strengthen cell walls to prevent the intrusion of pathogens, and flavonols after agroinfiltration of the corresponding genes in N. benthamiana. Enzymatic glucosylation of fractions of a physiological aglycone library confirmed the biological substrates of UGTs. In addition, overexpression of both genes in N. benthamiana produced clear lesions on the leaves and led to a significantly reduced content of pathogen-induced plant metabolites such as phenylalanine and tryptophan. Our results revealed some additional biological functions of TOGT enzymes and indicated a multifunctional role of UGTs in plant resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxin Sun
- Biotechnology of Natural Products, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Michael Strebl
- Biotechnology of Natural Products, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Maximilian Merz
- Biotechnology of Natural Products, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Robert Blamberg
- Biotechnology of Natural Products, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Fong-Chin Huang
- Biotechnology of Natural Products, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Kate McGraphery
- Biotechnology of Natural Products, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Thomas Hoffmann
- Biotechnology of Natural Products, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Wilfried Schwab
- Biotechnology of Natural Products, Technische Universität München, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 1, 85354, Freising, Germany
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Sadre R, Kuo P, Chen J, Yang Y, Banerjee A, Benning C, Hamberger B. Cytosolic lipid droplets as engineered organelles for production and accumulation of terpenoid biomaterials in leaves. Nat Commun 2019; 10:853. [PMID: 30787273 PMCID: PMC6382807 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-08515-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytosolic lipid droplets are endoplasmic reticulum-derived organelles typically found in seeds as reservoirs for physiological energy and carbon to fuel germination. Here, we report synthetic biology approaches to co-produce high-value sesqui- or diterpenoids together with lipid droplets in plant leaves. The formation of cytosolic lipid droplets is enhanced in the transient Nicotiana benthamiana system through ectopic production of WRINKLED1, a key regulator of plastid fatty acid biosynthesis, and a microalgal lipid droplet surface protein. Engineering of the pathways providing the universal C5-building blocks for terpenoids and installation of terpenoid biosynthetic pathways through direction of the enzymes to native and non-native compartments boost the production of target terpenoids. We show that anchoring of distinct biosynthetic steps onto the surface of lipid droplets leads to efficient production of terpenoid scaffolds and functionalized terpenoids. The co-produced lipid droplets "trap" the terpenoids in the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radin Sadre
- Department of Horticulture, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
- Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
| | - Peiyen Kuo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Jiaxing Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- MSU-DOE Plant Research Laboratory, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Aparajita Banerjee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Christoph Benning
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- MSU-DOE Plant Research Laboratory, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Bjoern Hamberger
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
- Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
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Tan CS, Isa NM, Ismail I, Zainal Z. Agarwood Induction: Current Developments and Future Perspectives. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2019; 10:122. [PMID: 30792732 PMCID: PMC6374618 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2019.00122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Agarwood is a resinous part of the non-timber Aquilaria tree, which is a highly valuable product for medicine and fragrance purposes. To protect the endangered Aquilaria species, mass plantation of Aquilaria trees has become a sustainable way in Asian countries to obtain the highly valuable agarwood. As only physiologically triggered Aquilaria tree can produce agarwood, effective induction methods are long sought in the agarwood industry. In this paper, we attempt to provide an overview for the past efforts toward the understanding of agarwood formation, the evolvement of induction methods and their further development prospects by integrating it with high-throughput omics approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Seng Tan
- Faculty of Science and Technology, School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
- Institute for Systems Biology (INBIOSIS), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Nurulhikma Md Isa
- Faculty of Science and Technology, School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Ismanizan Ismail
- Institute for Systems Biology (INBIOSIS), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Zamri Zainal
- Faculty of Science and Technology, School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
- Institute for Systems Biology (INBIOSIS), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
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41
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Reed J, Osbourn A. Engineering terpenoid production through transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2018; 37:1431-1441. [PMID: 29786761 PMCID: PMC6153650 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-018-2296-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Terpenoids are the most structurally diverse class of plant natural products with a huge range of commercial and medical applications. Exploiting this enormous potential has historically been hindered due to low levels of these compounds in their natural sources, making isolation difficult, while their structural complexity frequently makes synthetic chemistry approaches uneconomical. Engineering terpenoid biosynthesis in heterologous host production platforms provides a means to overcome these obstacles. In particular, plant-based production systems are attractive as they provide the compartmentalisation and cofactors necessary for the transfer of functional pathways from other plants. Nicotiana benthamiana, a wild relative of tobacco, has become increasingly popular as a heterologous expression platform for reconstituting plant natural product pathways, because it is amenable to Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression, a scalable and highly flexible process that enables rapid expression of genes and enzymes from other plant species. Here, we review recent work describing terpene production in N. benthamiana. We examine various strategies taken to engineer this host for increased production of the target metabolite. We also look at how transient expression can be utilised for rapid generation of molecular diversity, including new-to-nature products. Finally, we highlight current issues surrounding this expression platform and discuss the future directions and developments which will be needed to fully realise the potential of this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Reed
- Department of Metabolic Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Anne Osbourn
- Department of Metabolic Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK.
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42
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Stephenson MJ, Reed J, Brouwer B, Osbourn A. Transient Expression in Nicotiana Benthamiana Leaves for Triterpene Production at a Preparative Scale. J Vis Exp 2018:58169. [PMID: 30176025 PMCID: PMC6128107 DOI: 10.3791/58169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The triterpenes are one of the largest and most structurally diverse families of plant natural products. Many triterpene derivatives have been shown to possess medicinally relevant biological activity. However, thus far this potential has not translated into a plethora of triterpene-derived drugs in the clinic. This is arguably (at least partially) a consequence of limited practical synthetic access to this class of compound, a problem that can stifle the exploration of structure-activity relationships and development of lead candidates by traditional medicinal chemistry workflows. Despite their immense diversity, triterpenes are all derived from a single linear precursor, 2,3-oxidosqualene. Transient heterologous expression of biosynthetic enzymes in N. benthamiana can divert endogenous supplies of 2,3-oxidosqualene towards the production of new high-value triterpene products that are not naturally produced by this host. Agro-infiltration is an efficient and simple means of achieving transient expression in N. benthamiana. The process involves infiltration of plant leaves with a suspension of Agrobacterium tumefaciens carrying the expression construct(s) of interest. Co-infiltration of an additional A. tumefaciens strain carrying an expression construct encoding an enzyme that boosts precursor supply significantly increases yields. After a period of five days, the infiltrated leaf material can be harvested and processed to extract and isolate the resulting triterpene product(s). This is a process that is linearly and reliably scalable, simply by increasing the number of plants used in the experiment. Herein is described a protocol for rapid preparative-scale production of triterpenes utilizing this plant-based platform. The protocol utilizes an easily replicable vacuum infiltration apparatus, which allows the simultaneous infiltration of up to four plants, enabling batch-wise infiltration of hundreds of plants in a short period of time.
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43
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Andrade P, Manzano D, Ramirez-Estrada K, Caudepon D, Arro M, Ferrer A, Phillips MA. Nerolidol production in agroinfiltrated tobacco: Impact of protein stability and membrane targeting of strawberry (Fragraria ananassa) NEROLIDOL SYNTHASE1. PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2018; 267:112-123. [PMID: 29362090 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2017.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The sesquiterpene alcohol nerolidol, synthesized from farnesyl diphosphate (FDP), mediates plant-insect interactions across multiple trophic levels with major implications for pest management in agriculture. We compared nerolidol engineering strategies in tobacco using agroinfiltration to transiently express strawberry (Fragraria ananassa) linalool/nerolidol synthase (FaNES1) either at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or in the cytosol as a soluble protein. Using solid phase microextraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GCMS), we have determined that FaNES1 directed to the ER via fusion to the transmembrane domain of squalene synthase or hydroxymethylglutaryl - CoA reductase displayed significant improvements in terms of transcript levels, protein accumulation, and volatile production when compared to its cytosolic form. However, the highest levels of nerolidol production were observed when FaNES1 was fused to GFP and expressed in the cytosol. This SPME-GCMS method afforded a limit of detection and quantification of 1.54 and 5.13 pg, respectively. Nerolidol production levels, which ranged from 0.5 to 3.0 μg/g F.W., correlated more strongly to the accumulation of recombinant protein than transcript level, the former being highest in FaNES-GFP transfected plants. These results indicate that while the ER may represent an enriched source of FDP that can be exploited in metabolic engineering, protein accumulation is a better predictor of sesquiterpene production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Andrade
- Plant Metabolism and Metabolic Engineering Program, Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics, (CRAG) (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Campus UAB, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - David Manzano
- Plant Metabolism and Metabolic Engineering Program, Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics, (CRAG) (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Campus UAB, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Karla Ramirez-Estrada
- Plant Metabolism and Metabolic Engineering Program, Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics, (CRAG) (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Campus UAB, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Caudepon
- Plant Metabolism and Metabolic Engineering Program, Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics, (CRAG) (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Campus UAB, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Montserrat Arro
- Plant Metabolism and Metabolic Engineering Program, Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics, (CRAG) (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Campus UAB, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Albert Ferrer
- Plant Metabolism and Metabolic Engineering Program, Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics, (CRAG) (CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB), Campus UAB, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Michael A Phillips
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto - Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, L5L 1C6, Canada; Department of Cellular and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G5, Canada.
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Kemper K, Hirte M, Reinbold M, Fuchs M, Brück T. Opportunities and challenges for the sustainable production of structurally complex diterpenoids in recombinant microbial systems. Beilstein J Org Chem 2017; 13:845-854. [PMID: 28546842 PMCID: PMC5433224 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.13.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
With over 50.000 identified compounds terpenes are the largest and most structurally diverse group of natural products. They are ubiquitous in bacteria, plants, animals and fungi, conducting several biological functions such as cell wall components or defense mechanisms. Industrial applications entail among others pharmaceuticals, food additives, vitamins, fragrances, fuels and fuel additives. Central building blocks of all terpenes are the isoprenoid compounds isopentenyl diphosphate and dimethylallyl diphosphate. Bacteria like Escherichia coli harbor a native metabolic pathway for these isoprenoids that is quite amenable for genetic engineering. Together with recombinant terpene biosynthesis modules, they are very suitable hosts for heterologous production of high value terpenes. Yet, in contrast to the number of extracted and characterized terpenes, little is known about the specific biosynthetic enzymes that are involved especially in the formation of highly functionalized compounds. Novel approaches discussed in this review include metabolic engineering as well as site-directed mutagenesis to expand the natural terpene landscape. Focusing mainly on the validation of successful integration of engineered biosynthetic pathways into optimized terpene producing Escherichia coli, this review shall give an insight in recent progresses regarding manipulation of mostly diterpene synthases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Kemper
- Professorship for Industrial Biocatalysis, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstraße 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Max Hirte
- Professorship for Industrial Biocatalysis, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstraße 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Markus Reinbold
- Professorship for Industrial Biocatalysis, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstraße 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Monika Fuchs
- Professorship for Industrial Biocatalysis, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstraße 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Thomas Brück
- Professorship for Industrial Biocatalysis, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstraße 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
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Borghi M, Fernie AR, Schiestl FP, Bouwmeester HJ. The Sexual Advantage of Looking, Smelling, and Tasting Good: The Metabolic Network that Produces Signals for Pollinators. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2017; 22:338-350. [PMID: 28111171 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2016.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
A striking feature of the angiosperms that use animals as pollen carriers to sexually reproduce is the great diversity of their flowers with regard to morphology and traits such as color, odor, and nectar. These traits are underpinned by the synthesis of secondary metabolites such as pigments and volatiles, as well as carbohydrates and amino acids, which are used by plants to lure and reward animal pollinators. We review here the knowledge of the metabolic network that supports the biosynthesis of these compounds and the behavioral responses that these molecules elicit in the animal pollinators. Such knowledge provides us with a deeper insight into the ecology and evolution of plant-pollinator interactions, and should help us to better manage these ecologically essential interactions in agricultural ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Borghi
- Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alisdair R Fernie
- Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Muehlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Florian P Schiestl
- Department of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, University of Zürich, Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zürich
| | - Harro J Bouwmeester
- Laboratory of Plant Physiology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands; Present address: Plant Hormone Biology group, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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46
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Sun P, Schuurink RC, Caissard JC, Hugueney P, Baudino S. My Way: Noncanonical Biosynthesis Pathways for Plant Volatiles. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2016; 21:884-894. [PMID: 27475252 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Plant volatiles are crucial for various interactions with other organisms and their surrounding environment. A large number of these volatiles belong to the terpenoid and benzenoid/phenylpropanoid classes, which have long been considered to be exclusively synthesized from a few canonical pathways. However, several alternative pathways producing these plant volatiles have been discovered recently. This review summarizes the current knowledge about new pathways for these two major groups of plant volatiles, which open new perspectives for applications in metabolic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pulu Sun
- Université de Lyon, UJM-Saint-Étienne, CNRS, BVpam FRE 3727, F-42023 Saint-Étienne, France; Department of Plant Physiology, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert C Schuurink
- Department of Plant Physiology, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jean-Claude Caissard
- Université de Lyon, UJM-Saint-Étienne, CNRS, BVpam FRE 3727, F-42023 Saint-Étienne, France
| | | | - Sylvie Baudino
- Université de Lyon, UJM-Saint-Étienne, CNRS, BVpam FRE 3727, F-42023 Saint-Étienne, France.
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47
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Pazouki L, Niinemets Ü. Multi-Substrate Terpene Synthases: Their Occurrence and Physiological Significance. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2016; 7:1019. [PMID: 27462341 PMCID: PMC4940680 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2016.01019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Terpene synthases are responsible for synthesis of a large number of terpenes in plants using substrates provided by two distinct metabolic pathways, the mevalonate-dependent pathway that is located in cytosol and has been suggested to be responsible for synthesis of sesquiterpenes (C15), and 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol-4-phosphate pathway located in plastids and suggested to be responsible for the synthesis of hemi- (C5), mono- (C10), and diterpenes (C20). Recent advances in characterization of genes and enzymes responsible for substrate and end product biosynthesis as well as efforts in metabolic engineering have demonstrated existence of a number of multi-substrate terpene synthases. This review summarizes the progress in the characterization of such multi-substrate terpene synthases and suggests that the presence of multi-substrate use might have been significantly underestimated. Multi-substrate use could lead to important changes in terpene product profiles upon substrate profile changes under perturbation of metabolism in stressed plants as well as under certain developmental stages. We therefore argue that multi-substrate use can be significant under physiological conditions and can result in complicate modifications in terpene profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Pazouki
- Department of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life SciencesTartu, Estonia
| | - Ülo Niinemets
- Department of Plant Physiology, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life SciencesTartu, Estonia
- Estonian Academy of SciencesTallinn, Estonia
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48
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Majdi M, Ashengroph M, Abdollahi MR. Sesquiterpene lactone engineering in microbial and plant platforms: parthenolide and artemisinin as case studies. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2015; 100:1041-1059. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-015-7128-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 10/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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