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Song F, Zhang H, Qin Z, Zhou J. Intelligent biomanufacturing of water-soluble vitamins. Trends Biotechnol 2025:S0167-7799(25)00134-9. [PMID: 40335344 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2025.04.007] [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: 01/18/2025] [Revised: 04/05/2025] [Accepted: 04/07/2025] [Indexed: 05/09/2025]
Abstract
Given the crucial role of water-soluble vitamins in the human body and the rising demand for natural sources, their biosynthesis has gained the attention of researchers. This review offers a comprehensive look at recent progress in water-soluble vitamin biosynthesis, emphasizing synthetic biotechnology for green biomanufacturing. Specifically, it encompasses the optimization of biological components, pathways, and systems, as well as energy metabolism regulation, stress-tolerance enhancement, high-throughput screening, and the upscaling of production processes. It also envisages intelligent biomanufacturing platforms, highlighting the role of systems biology and artificial intelligence (AI), and proposes future research directions, such as integrating AI-driven metabolic models, enzyme engineering, and cell-free systems, to address limitations in the efficiency, toxicity, and scalability of water-soluble vitamin production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuqiang Song
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Heng Zhang
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhijie Qin
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Jingwen Zhou
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education on Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Food Synthetic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; Jiangsu Province Basic Research Center for Synthetic Biology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.
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2
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Gao L, Yuan J, Hong K, Ma NL, Liu S, Wu X. Technological advancement spurs Komagataella phaffii as a next-generation platform for sustainable biomanufacturing. Biotechnol Adv 2025; 82:108593. [PMID: 40339766 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2025.108593] [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: 03/05/2025] [Revised: 04/11/2025] [Accepted: 05/01/2025] [Indexed: 05/10/2025]
Abstract
Biomanufacturing stands as a cornerstone of sustainable industrial development, necessitating a shift toward non-food carbon feedstocks to alleviate agricultural resource competition and advance a circular bioeconomy. Methanol, a renewable one‑carbon substrate, has emerged as a pivotal candidate due to its abundance, cost-effectiveness, and high reduction potential, further bolstered by breakthroughs in CO₂ hydrogenation-based synthesis. Capitalizing on this momentum, the methylotrophic yeast Komagataella phaffii has undergone transformative technological upgrades, evolving from a conventional protein expression workhorse into an intelligent bioproduction chassis. This paradigm shift is fundamentally driven by converging innovations across CRISPR-empowered advancement in genome editing and AI-powered metabolic pathway design in K. phaffii. The integration of CRISPR systems with droplet microfluidics high-throughput screening has redefined strain engineering efficiency, achieving much higher editing precision than traditional homologous recombination while compressing the "design-build-test-learn" cycle. Concurrently, machine learning-enhanced genome-scale metabolic models facilitate dynamic flux balancing, enabling simultaneous improvements in product titers, carbon yields, and volumetric productivity. Finally, technological advancement promotes the application of K. phaffii, including directing more efficiently metabolic flux toward nutrient products, and strengthening efficient synthesis of excreted proteins. As DNA synthesis automation and robotic experimentation platforms mature, next-generation breakthroughs in genome modification, cofactor engineering, and AI-guided autonomous evolution will further cement K. phaffii as a next-generation platform for decarbonizing global manufacturing paradigms. This technological trajectory positions methanol-based biomanufacturing as a cornerstone of the low-carbon circular economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Gao
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, No. 32, Xiqi Road, Tianjin Airport Economic Park, Tianjin 300308, China.
| | - Jie Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, No. 32, Xiqi Road, Tianjin Airport Economic Park, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Kai Hong
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, No. 32, Xiqi Road, Tianjin Airport Economic Park, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Nyuk Ling Ma
- Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, University Malaysia Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Shuguang Liu
- Beijing Chasing future Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, No. 32, Xiqi Road, Tianjin Airport Economic Park, Tianjin 300308, China.
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3
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Li M, Chen R, Qiao J, Li W, Zhu H. Recent Advances in Multiple Strategies for the Biosynthesis of Sesquiterpenols. Biomolecules 2025; 15:664. [PMID: 40427558 PMCID: PMC12108891 DOI: 10.3390/biom15050664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2025] [Revised: 04/27/2025] [Accepted: 04/28/2025] [Indexed: 05/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Sesquiterpenols, a class of natural compounds composed of three isoprene units that form a 15-carbon skeleton with hydroxyl (-OH) group, are characterized by their volatility and potent aromatic properties. These compounds exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including antitumor, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-neurotoxic, antiviral, immunosuppressive, hepatoprotective, and cardiotonic effects. Due to their diverse physiological functionalities, sesquiterpenols serve as critical raw materials in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. In recent years, research on the heterologous synthesis of sesquiterpenol compounds using microbial systems has surged, attracting significant scientific interest. However, challenges such as low yields and high production costs have impeded their industrial-scale application. The rapid development of synthetic biology has introduced innovative methodologies for the microbial production of sesquiterpenol compounds. Herein, we examine the latest synthetic biology strategies and progress in microbial sesquiterpenol production, focusing on adaptive sesquiterpenol synthase screening and expression, synthesis pathway regulation, intracellular compartmentalized expression strategies, and tolerance to terpenoid-related toxicity. Critical challenges and future directions are also discussed to advance research in sesquiterpenol biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.L.); (R.C.); (J.Q.)
- State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Zhejiang Institute of Tianjin University (Shaoxing), Shaoxing 312300, China
| | - Ruiqi Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.L.); (R.C.); (J.Q.)
- State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Zhejiang Institute of Tianjin University (Shaoxing), Shaoxing 312300, China
| | - Jianjun Qiao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.L.); (R.C.); (J.Q.)
- State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Zhejiang Institute of Tianjin University (Shaoxing), Shaoxing 312300, China
| | - Weiguo Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.L.); (R.C.); (J.Q.)
- Zhejiang Institute of Tianjin University (Shaoxing), Shaoxing 312300, China
| | - Hongji Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (M.L.); (R.C.); (J.Q.)
- State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Zhejiang Institute of Tianjin University (Shaoxing), Shaoxing 312300, China
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4
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Zhou Y, Liu Y, Sun H, Lu Y. Creating novel metabolic pathways by protein engineering for bioproduction. Trends Biotechnol 2025; 43:1094-1103. [PMID: 39632163 PMCID: PMC12064402 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2024.10.017] [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: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 10/21/2024] [Accepted: 10/31/2024] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
A diverse array of natural products has been produced by cell biofactories through metabolic engineering, in which enzymes play essential roles in the complex metabolic network. However, the scope of such biotransformation can be limited by the capacities of natural enzymes. To broaden their scope, many natural enzymes have recently been engineered to activate non-native substrates and/or to employ new-to-nature reaction mechanisms, but most of these systems are only demonstrated for in vitro applications. To bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo biocatalysis, we highlight recent progress in engineering enzymes with non-native substrates or new-to-nature mechanisms that have been successfully applied in living cells to create novel metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Yiwei Liu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Haoran Sun
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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5
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Kraußer F, Rabe K, Topham CM, Voland J, Lilienthal L, Kundoch JO, Ohde D, Liese A, Walther T. Cell-Free Reaction System for ATP Regeneration from d-Fructose. ACS Synth Biol 2025; 14:1250-1263. [PMID: 40143462 PMCID: PMC12012885 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00877] [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: 12/19/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2025] [Accepted: 03/13/2025] [Indexed: 03/28/2025]
Abstract
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-dependent in vitro bioprocesses, such as cell-free protein synthesis and the production of phosphorylated fine chemicals, are of considerable industrial significance. However, their implementation is mainly hindered by the high cost of ATP. We propose and demonstrate the feasibility of a cell-free ATP regeneration system based on the in situ generation of the high-energy compound acetyl phosphate from low-cost d-fructose and inorganic phosphate substrates. The enzyme cascade chains d-fructose phosphoketolase, d-erythrose isomerase, d-erythrulose phosphoketolase, and glycolaldehyde phosphoketolase activities theoretically enabling production of 3 mol ATP per mol of d-fructose. Through a semirational engineering approach and the screening of nine single-mutation libraries, we optimized the phosphoketolase (PKT) from Bifidobacterium adolescentis, identifying the improved variant Bad.F6Pkt H548N. This mutant exhibited a 5.6-fold increase in d-fructose activity, a 2.2-fold increase in d-erythrulose activity, and a 1.3-fold increase in glycolaldehyde activity compared to the wild-type enzyme. The Bad.F6Pkt H548N mutant was initially implemented in a cell-free reaction system together with an acetate kinase from Geobacillus stearothermophilus and a glycerol kinase from Cellulomonas sp. for the production of glycerol-3 phosphate from ADP and glycerol. We demonstrated the feasibility of ATP regeneration from 25 mM d-fructose with a stoichiometry of 1 mol of ATP per mol of C6 ketose. Subsequently, the reaction system was enhanced by incorporating d-erythrose isomerase activity provided by a l-rhamnose isomerase from Pseudomonas stutzeri. In the complete system, the ATP yield increased to 2.53 mol molfructose-1 with a maximum productivity of 7.2 mM h-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Kraußer
- Chair
of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kenny Rabe
- Chair
of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Julian Voland
- Chair
of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Laura Lilienthal
- Chair
of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Jan-Ole Kundoch
- Institute
of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University
of Technology, Denickestr.
15, 21073 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Ohde
- Institute
of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University
of Technology, Denickestr.
15, 21073 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Liese
- Institute
of Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University
of Technology, Denickestr.
15, 21073 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Walther
- Chair
of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany
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6
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Shi Q, Zhang B, Wu Z, Yang D, Wu H, Shi J, Jiang Z. Cascade Catalytic Systems for Converting CO 2 into C 2+ Products. CHEMSUSCHEM 2025; 18:e202401916. [PMID: 39564785 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202401916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2024] [Revised: 11/19/2024] [Accepted: 11/19/2024] [Indexed: 11/21/2024]
Abstract
The excessive emission and continuous accumulation of CO2 have precipitated serious social and environmental issues. However, CO2 can also serve as an abundant, inexpensive, and non-toxic renewable C1 carbon source for synthetic reactions. To achieve carbon neutrality and recycling, it is crucial to convert CO2 into value-added products through chemical pathways. Multi-carbon (C2+) products, compared to C1 products, offer a broader range of applications and higher economic returns. Despite this, converting CO2 into C2+ products is difficult due to its stability and the high energy required for C-C coupling. Cascade catalytic reactions offer a solution by coordinating active components, promoting intermediate transfers, and facilitating further transformations. This method lowers energy consumption. Recent advancements in cascade catalytic systems have allowed for significant progress in synthesizing C2+ products from CO2. This review highlights the features and advantages of cascade catalysis strategies, explores the synergistic effects among active sites, and examines the mechanisms within these systems. It also outlines future prospects for CO2 cascade catalytic synthesis, offering a framework for efficient CO2 utilization and the development of next-generation catalytic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaochu Shi
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Boyu Zhang
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Zhenhua Wu
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Dong Yang
- School of Chemical Engineering & Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Hong Wu
- School of Chemical Engineering & Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Jiafu Shi
- School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Zhongyi Jiang
- School of Chemical Engineering & Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China
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7
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Frazão CJR, Wagner N, Nguyen TAS, Walther T. Construction of a synthetic metabolic pathway for biosynthesis of threonine from ethylene glycol. Metab Eng 2025; 88:50-62. [PMID: 39672460 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2024.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2024] [Revised: 11/25/2024] [Accepted: 12/05/2024] [Indexed: 12/15/2024]
Abstract
Ethylene glycol is a promising substrate for bioprocesses which can be derived from widely abundant CO2 or plastic waste. In this work, we describe the construction of an eight-step synthetic metabolic pathway enabling carbon-conserving biosynthesis of threonine from ethylene glycol. This route extends the previously disclosed synthetic threose-dependent glycolaldehyde assimilation (STEGA) pathway for the synthesis of 2-oxo-4-hydroxybutyrate with three additional reaction steps catalyzed by homoserine transaminase, homoserine kinase, and threonine synthase. We first validated the functionality of the new pathway in an Escherichia coli strain auxotrophic for threonine, which was also employed for discovering a better-performing D-threose dehydrogenase enzyme activity. Subsequently, we transferred the pathway to producer strains and used 13C-tracer experiments to improve threonine biosynthesis starting from glycolaldehyde. Finally, extending the pathway for ethylene glycol assimilation resulted in the production of up to 6.5 mM (or 0.8 g L-1) threonine by optimized E. coli strains at a yield of 0.10 mol mol-1 (corresponding to 20 % of the theoretical yield).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudio J R Frazão
- Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany
| | - Nils Wagner
- Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany
| | - T A Stefanie Nguyen
- Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Walther
- Institute of Natural Materials Technology, TU Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany.
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8
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Daroch M, You D, Rasul F, Liu X, Jiang Y. C1 photochemotrophy - rethinking one-carbon metabolism in phototrophs. Trends Biotechnol 2025:S0167-7799(25)00003-4. [PMID: 39924356 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2025.01.003] [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: 10/17/2024] [Revised: 01/13/2025] [Accepted: 01/15/2025] [Indexed: 02/11/2025]
Abstract
Excessive CO2 emissions, caused by an imbalance between carbon oxidation and reduction, drive climate change. To address this, we propose photochemotrophic metabolism as an alternative to both canonical photosynthesis and synthetic one-carbon (C1) metabolism in heterotrophs. In photochemotrophy, naturally phototrophic microorganisms such as cyanobacteria serve as the chassis to assimilate chemically reduced and soluble C1 compounds such as formate or methanol by using carbon fixation cycles that are more efficient than the native Calvin cycle. Key potential advantages of photochemotrophy include enhanced carbon fixation efficiency, utilization of storable carbon compounds, retention of energy from the original CO2 reduction, and decoupling of carbon delivery and electron source. This proposed strategy positions photochemotrophic cyanobacteria as a promising tool for advancing the bioeconomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurycy Daroch
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China.
| | - Dawei You
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Faiz Rasul
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiangjian Liu
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
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9
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Vega A, Planas A, Biarnés X. A Practical Guide to Computational Tools for Engineering Biocatalytic Properties. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:980. [PMID: 39940748 PMCID: PMC11817184 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26030980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2024] [Revised: 01/20/2025] [Accepted: 01/21/2025] [Indexed: 02/16/2025] Open
Abstract
The growing demand for efficient, selective, and stable enzymes has fueled advancements in computational enzyme engineering, a field that complements experimental methods to accelerate enzyme discovery. With a plethora of software and tools available, researchers from different disciplines often face challenges in selecting the most suitable method that meets their requirements and available starting data. This review categorizes the computational tools available for enzyme engineering based on their capacity to enhance the following specific biocatalytic properties of biotechnological interest: (i) protein-ligand affinity/selectivity, (ii) catalytic efficiency, (iii) thermostability, and (iv) solubility for recombinant enzyme production. By aligning tools with their respective scoring functions, we aim to guide researchers, particularly those new to computational methods, in selecting the appropriate software for the design of protein engineering campaigns. De novo enzyme design, involving the creation of novel proteins, is beyond this review's scope. Instead, we focus on practical strategies for fine-tuning enzymatic performance within an established reference framework of natural proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Vega
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Institut Químic de Sarrià, Universitat Ramon Llull, Via Augusta 390, 08017 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Antoni Planas
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Institut Químic de Sarrià, Universitat Ramon Llull, Via Augusta 390, 08017 Barcelona, Spain;
- Royal Academy of Sciences and Arts of Barcelona, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xevi Biarnés
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Institut Químic de Sarrià, Universitat Ramon Llull, Via Augusta 390, 08017 Barcelona, Spain;
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10
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Hashidzume A. The second wave of formose research. BBA ADVANCES 2025; 7:100141. [PMID: 39974666 PMCID: PMC11835704 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadva.2025.100141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2024] [Revised: 01/09/2025] [Accepted: 01/13/2025] [Indexed: 02/21/2025] Open
Abstract
This review article highlights key developments in the second wave of formose research (from approximately 2000), summarizing approximately 100 relevant studies. Section 1 introduces the basics of formose reaction and its historical context. Section 2 provides a brief overview of the pioneering works from the first wave of formose research (from 1970 to 1990). Section 3 then overviews the second wave of formose research, in which formose reactions under various conditions, mechanistic studies of the formose reaction, formose reactions and the origin of life, and applications of formose reactions are described. Finally, Section 4 offers summary and outlook.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihito Hashidzume
- Department of Macromolecular Science, Graduate School of Science, Osaka University, 1-1 Machikaneyama-cho, Toyonaka, Osaka 560-0043, Japan
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11
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Puiggené Ò, Favoino G, Federici F, Partipilo M, Orsi E, Alván-Vargas MVG, Hernández-Sancho JM, Dekker NK, Ørsted EC, Bozkurt EU, Grassi S, Martí-Pagés J, Volke DC, Nikel PI. Seven critical challenges in synthetic one-carbon assimilation and their potential solutions. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2025; 49:fuaf011. [PMID: 40175298 PMCID: PMC12010959 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuaf011] [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: 02/05/2025] [Revised: 03/23/2025] [Accepted: 04/01/2025] [Indexed: 04/04/2025] Open
Abstract
Synthetic C1 assimilation holds the promise of facilitating carbon capture while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, yet practical implementation in microbial hosts remains relatively limited. Despite substantial progress in pathway design and prototyping, most efforts stay at the proof-of-concept stage, with frequent failures observed even under in vitro conditions. This review identifies seven major barriers constraining the deployment of synthetic C1 metabolism in microorganisms and proposes targeted strategies for overcoming these issues. A primary limitation is the low catalytic activity of carbon-fixing enzymes, particularly carboxylases, which restricts the overall pathway performance. In parallel, challenges in expressing multiple heterologous genes-especially those encoding metal-dependent or oxygen-sensitive enzymes-further hinder pathway functionality. At the systems level, synthetic C1 pathways often exhibit poor flux distribution, limited integration with the host metabolism, accumulation of toxic intermediates, and disruptions in redox and energy balance. These factors collectively reduce biomass formation and compromise product yields in biotechnological setups. Overcoming these interconnected challenges is essential for moving synthetic C1 assimilation beyond conceptual stages and enabling its application in scalable, efficient bioprocesses towards a circular bioeconomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Òscar Puiggené
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Giusi Favoino
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Filippo Federici
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Michele Partipilo
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Enrico Orsi
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Maria V G Alván-Vargas
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Javier M Hernández-Sancho
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Nienke K Dekker
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Emil C Ørsted
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Eray U Bozkurt
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Sara Grassi
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Julia Martí-Pagés
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Daniel C Volke
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Pablo I Nikel
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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12
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Meng X, Hu G, Li X, Gao C, Song W, Wei W, Wu J, Liu L. A synthetic methylotroph achieves accelerated cell growth by alleviating transcription-replication conflicts. Nat Commun 2025; 16:31. [PMID: 39747058 PMCID: PMC11695965 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55502-5] [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: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 12/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/04/2025] Open
Abstract
Microbial utilization of methanol for valorization is an effective way to advance green bio-manufacturing technology. Although synthetic methylotrophs have been developed, strategies to enhance their cell growth rate and internal regulatory mechanism remain underexplored. In this study, we design a synthetic methanol assimilation (SMA) pathway containing only six enzymes linked to central carbon metabolism, which does not require energy and carbon emissions. Through rational design and laboratory evolution, E. coli harboring with the SMA pathway is converted into a synthetic methylotroph. By self-adjusting the expression of TOPAI (topoisomerase I inhibitor) to alleviate transcriptional-replication conflicts (TRCs), the doubling time of methylotrophic E. coli is reduced to 4.5 h, approaching that of natural methylotrophs. This work has the potential to overcome the growth limitation of C1-assimilating microbes and advance the development of a circular carbon economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Meng
- School of Biotechnology and Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology of Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wux, China
| | - Guipeng Hu
- School of Life Sciences and Health Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- School of Biotechnology and Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology of Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wux, China
| | - Cong Gao
- School of Biotechnology and Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology of Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wux, China
| | - Wei Song
- School of Life Sciences and Health Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Wanqing Wei
- School of Biotechnology and Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology of Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wux, China
| | - Jing Wu
- School of Life Sciences and Health Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Liming Liu
- School of Biotechnology and Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology of Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wux, China.
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13
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Klos N, Osterthun O, Mengers HG, Lanzerath P, Graf von Westarp W, Lim G, Gausmann M, Küsters-Spöring JD, Wiesenthal J, Guntermann N, Lauterbach L, Jupke A, Leitner W, Blank LM, Klankermayer J, Rother D. Concatenating Microbial, Enzymatic, and Organometallic Catalysis for Integrated Conversion of Renewable Carbon Sources. JACS AU 2024; 4:4546-4570. [PMID: 39735920 PMCID: PMC11672146 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.4c00511] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 10/08/2024] [Accepted: 10/08/2024] [Indexed: 12/31/2024]
Abstract
The chemical industry can now seize the opportunity to improve the sustainability of its processes by replacing fossil carbon sources with renewable alternatives such as CO2, biomass, and plastics, thereby thinking ahead and having a look into the future. For their conversion to intermediate and final products, different types of catalysts-microbial, enzymatic, and organometallic-can be applied. The first part of this review shows how these catalysts can work separately in parallel, each route with unique requirements and advantages. While the different types of catalysts are often seen as competitive approaches, an increasing number of examples highlight, how combinations and concatenations of catalysts of the complete spectrum can open new roads to new products. Therefore, the second part focuses on the different catalysts either in one-step, one-pot transformations or in reaction cascades. In the former, the reaction conditions must be conflated but purification steps are minimized. In the latter, each catalyst can work under optimal conditions and the "hand-over points" should be chosen according to defined criteria like minimal energy usage during separation procedures. The examples are discussed in the context of the contributions of catalysis to the envisaged (bio)economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Klos
- Institute
of Bio- and Geosciences 1: Biotechnology (IBG-1), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52428, Germany
- Institute
of Applied Microbiology (iAMB), Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Ole Osterthun
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Hendrik G. Mengers
- Institute
of Applied Microbiology (iAMB), Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Patrick Lanzerath
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - William Graf von Westarp
- Fluid
Process Engineering (AVT.FVT), RWTH Aachen
University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Guiyeoul Lim
- Institute
of Applied Microbiology (iAMB), Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Marcel Gausmann
- Fluid
Process Engineering (AVT.FVT), RWTH Aachen
University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Jan-Dirk Küsters-Spöring
- Institute
of Bio- and Geosciences 1: Biotechnology (IBG-1), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52428, Germany
- Institute
of Applied Microbiology (iAMB), Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Jan Wiesenthal
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Nils Guntermann
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Lars Lauterbach
- Institute
of Applied Microbiology (iAMB), Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Andreas Jupke
- Fluid
Process Engineering (AVT.FVT), RWTH Aachen
University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
- Institute
of Bio- and Geosciences 2: Plant Science (IBG-2), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52428, Germany
| | - Walter Leitner
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
- Max-Planck-Institute
for Chemical Energy Conversion, Mülheim an der Ruhr, Nordrhein-Westfalen 45470, Germany
| | - Lars M. Blank
- Institute
of Applied Microbiology (iAMB), Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Jürgen Klankermayer
- Institute
of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry (ITMC), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
| | - Dörte Rother
- Institute
of Bio- and Geosciences 1: Biotechnology (IBG-1), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52428, Germany
- Institute
of Applied Microbiology (iAMB), Aachen Biology and Biotechnology (ABBt), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Nordrhein-Westfalen 52074, Germany
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14
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Li M, Sun W, Wang X, Chen K, Feng Y, Tan Z. A Eukaryote-Featured Membrane Phospholipid Enhances Bacterial Formaldehyde Tolerance and Assimilation of One-Carbon Feedstocks. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:4074-4084. [PMID: 39563531 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2024]
Abstract
Efficient bioassimilation of one-carbon (C1) feedstocks is often hindered by the toxicity of C1 substrates and/or intermediates. We compared the toxicity of several common C1 substrates/intermediates and found that formaldehyde imposes the highest toxicity on the representative bacterium Escherichia coli. Besides causing chromosomal DNA and protein damage effects, here, we revealed that formaldehyde greatly impairs cell membranes. To this end, here, we sought to remodel the cell membrane of E. coli by introducing a non-native, eukaryote-featured membrane phospholipid composition, phosphatidylcholine (PC). This engineered E. coli strain exhibited significantly increased membrane integrity, resulting in enhanced formaldehyde tolerance. When applied to C1 assimilation, the PC-harboring E. coli consumed up to 4.7 g/L methanol, which is 23-fold higher than that of the control strain (0.2 g/L). In summary, the present study highlights the detrimental impact of formaldehyde-induced membrane damage and thus underscores the significance of membrane remodeling in enhancing formaldehyde tolerance and facilitating the assimilation of C1 substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- MengKun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Department of Bioengineering School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology., Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Wenjie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Department of Bioengineering School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology., Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 241000, China
| | - Kequan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 241000, China
| | - Yan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Zaigao Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Department of Bioengineering School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology., Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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15
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Balola A, Ferreira S, Rocha I. From plastic waste to bioprocesses: Using ethylene glycol from polyethylene terephthalate biodegradation to fuel Escherichia coli metabolism and produce value-added compounds. Metab Eng Commun 2024; 19:e00254. [PMID: 39720189 PMCID: PMC11667706 DOI: 10.1016/j.mec.2024.e00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 10/29/2024] [Accepted: 11/22/2024] [Indexed: 12/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a petroleum-based plastic polymer that, by design, can last decades, if not hundreds of years, when released into the environment through plastic waste leakage. In the pursuit of sustainable solutions to plastic waste recycling and repurposing, the enzymatic depolymerization of PET has emerged as a promising green alternative. However, the metabolic potential of the resulting PET breakdown molecules, such as the two-carbon (C2) molecule ethylene glycol (EG), remains largely untapped. Here, we review and discuss the current state of research regarding existing natural and synthetic microbial pathways that enable the assimilation of EG as a carbon and energy source for Escherichia coli. Leveraging the metabolic versatility of E. coli, we explore the viability of this widely used industrial strain in harnessing EG as feedstock for the synthesis of target value-added compounds via metabolic and protein engineering strategies. Consequently, we assess the potential of EG as a versatile alternative to conventional carbon sources like glucose, facilitating the closure of the loop between the highly available PET waste and the production of valuable biochemicals. This review explores the interplay between PET biodegradation and EG metabolism, as well as the key challenges and opportunities, while offering perspectives and suggestions for propelling advancements in microbial EG assimilation for circular economy applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Balola
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Sofia Ferreira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Isabel Rocha
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Oeiras, Portugal
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16
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Dowaidar M. Synthetic biology of metabolic cycles for Enhanced CO 2 capture and Sequestration. Bioorg Chem 2024; 153:107774. [PMID: 39260160 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
In most organisms, the tri-carboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle) is an essential metabolic system that is involved in both energy generation and carbon metabolism. Its uni-directionality, however, restricts its use in synthetic biology and carbon fixation. Here, it is describing the use of the modified TCA cycle, called the Tri-carboxylic acid Hooked to Ethylene by Enzyme Reactions and Amino acid Synthesis, the reductive tricarboxylic acid branch/4-hydroxybutyryl-CoA/ethylmalonyl-CoA/acetyl-CoA (THETA) cycle, in Escherichia coli for the purposes of carbon fixation and amino acid synthesis. Three modules make up the THETA cycle: (1) pyruvate to succinate transformation, (2) succinate to crotonyl-CoA change, and (3) crotonyl-CoA to acetyl-CoA and pyruvate change. It is presenting each module's viability in vivo and showing how it integrates into the E. coli metabolic network to support growth on minimal medium without the need for outside supplementation. Enzyme optimization, route redesign, and heterologous expression were used to get over metabolic roadblocks and produce functional modules. Furthermore, the THETA cycle may be improved by including components of the Carbon-Efficient Tri-Carboxylic Acid Cycle (CETCH cycle) to improve carbon fixation. THETA cycle's promise as a platform for applications in synthetic biology and carbon fixation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moataz Dowaidar
- Bioengineering Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia; Interdisciplinary Research Center for Hydrogen Technologies and Carbon Management, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia; Biosystems and Machines Research Center, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia.
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17
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Jia M, Liu M, Li J, Jiang W, Xin F, Zhang W, Jiang Y, Jiang M. Formaldehyde: An Essential Intermediate for C1 Metabolism and Bioconversion. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:3507-3522. [PMID: 39395007 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2024]
Abstract
Formaldehyde is an intermediate metabolite of methylotrophic microorganisms that can be obtained from formate and methanol through oxidation-reduction reactions. Formaldehyde is also a one-carbon (C1) compound with high uniquely reactive activity and versatility, which is more amenable to further biocatalysis. Biosynthesis of high-value-added chemicals using formaldehyde as an intermediate is theoretically feasible and promising. This review focuses on the design of the biosynthesis of high-value-added chemicals using formaldehyde as an essential intermediate. The upstream biosynthesis and downstream bioconversion pathways of formaldehyde as an intermediate metabolite are described in detail, aiming to highlight the important role of formaldehyde in the transition from inorganic to organic carbon and carbon chain elongation. In addition, challenges and future directions of formaldehyde as an intermediate for the chemicals are discussed, with the expectation of providing ideas for the utilization of C1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengshi Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, P. R. China
| | - Mengge Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, P. R. China
| | - Jiawen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, P. R. China
| | - Wankui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, P. R. China
| | - Fengxue Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, P. R. China
| | - Wenming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Biochemical Chiral Engineering Technology Reseach Center, Changmao Biochemical Engineering Co., Ltd., Changzhou 213034, P. R. China
| | - Yujia Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, P. R. China
| | - Min Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, P. R. China
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18
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Luan L, Zhang Y, Ji X, Guo B, Song S, Huang Y, Zhang S. Electro-Driven Multi-Enzymatic Cascade Conversion of CO 2 to Ethylene Glycol in Nano-Reactor. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2407204. [PMID: 39231322 PMCID: PMC11538636 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202407204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Multi-enzymatic cascade reaction provides a new avenue for C─C coupling directly from CO2 under mild conditions. In this study, a new pathway with four enzymes including formate dehydrogenase (PaFDH), formaldehyde dehydrogenase (BmFADH), glycolaldehyde synthase (PpGALS), and alcohol dehydrogenase (GoADH) is developed for directly converting CO2 gas molecules to ethylene glycol (EG) in vitro. A rhodium-based NADH regeneration electrode is constructed to continuously provide the proton and electron of this multi-enzymatic cascade reaction. The prepared electrode can reach the Faradaic Efficiency (FE) of 82.9% at -0.6 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) and the NADH productivity of 0.737 mM h-1. Shortening the reaction path is crucial for multi-enzymatic cascade reactions. Here, a hydrogen-bonded organic framework (HOF) nano-reactor is successfully developed to immobilize four enzymes in one pot with a striking enzyme loading capacity (990 mg enzyme g-1 material). Through integrating and optimization of NADH electro-regeneration and enzymatic catalysis in one pot, 0.15 mM EG is achieved with an average conversion rate of 7.15 × 10-7 mmol CO2 min-1 mg-1 enzymes in 6 h. These results shed light on electro-driven multi-enzymatic cascade conversion of C─C coupling from CO2 in the nano-reactor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Likun Luan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ionic Liquids Clean ProcessCAS Key Laboratory of Green Process and EngineeringState Key Laboratory of Mesoscience and EngineeringInstitute of Process EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
- Sino‐Danish CollegeUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing101408P. R. China
| | - Yingfang Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ionic Liquids Clean ProcessCAS Key Laboratory of Green Process and EngineeringState Key Laboratory of Mesoscience and EngineeringInstitute of Process EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
| | - Xiuling Ji
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ionic Liquids Clean ProcessCAS Key Laboratory of Green Process and EngineeringState Key Laboratory of Mesoscience and EngineeringInstitute of Process EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
| | - Boxia Guo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ionic Liquids Clean ProcessCAS Key Laboratory of Green Process and EngineeringState Key Laboratory of Mesoscience and EngineeringInstitute of Process EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
- Sino‐Danish CollegeUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing101408P. R. China
| | - Shaoyu Song
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ionic Liquids Clean ProcessCAS Key Laboratory of Green Process and EngineeringState Key Laboratory of Mesoscience and EngineeringInstitute of Process EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
| | - Yuhong Huang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ionic Liquids Clean ProcessCAS Key Laboratory of Green Process and EngineeringState Key Laboratory of Mesoscience and EngineeringInstitute of Process EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
| | - Suojiang Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ionic Liquids Clean ProcessCAS Key Laboratory of Green Process and EngineeringState Key Laboratory of Mesoscience and EngineeringInstitute of Process EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
- Longzihu New Energy LaboratoryZhengzhou Institute of Emerging Industrial TechnologyHenan UniversityZhengzhou450000P. R. China
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19
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Yan Y, Zhao H, Liu D, Zhang J, Liu Y, Jiang H. Redesigning glycolaldehyde synthase for the synthesis of biorefinery feedstock D-xylulose from C1 compounds. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2400360. [PMID: 39295561 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202400360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
Global climate deterioration intensifies the demand for exploiting efficient CO2 utilization approaches. Converting CO2 to biorefinery feedstock affords an alternative strategy for third-generation biorefineries. However, upcycling CO2 into complex chiral carbohydrates remains a major challenge. Previous attempts at sugar synthesis from CO2 either produce mixtures with poor stereoselectivity or require ATP as a cofactor. Here, by redesigning glycolaldehyde synthase, the authors constructed a synthetic pathway for biorefinery feedstock D-xylulose from CO2 that does not require ATP as a cofactor. The artificial D-xylulose pathway only requires a three-step enzyme cascade reaction to achieve the stereoselective synthesis of D-xylulose at a concentration of 1.2 g L-1. Our research opens up an alternative route toward future production of chemicals and fuels from CO2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yan
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haodong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Dingyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuwan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Huifeng Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
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20
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Landwehr GM, Vogeli B, Tian C, Singal B, Gupta A, Lion R, Sargent EH, Karim AS, Jewett MC. A synthetic cell-free pathway for biocatalytic upgrading of one-carbon substrates. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.08.607227. [PMID: 39149402 PMCID: PMC11326285 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.08.607227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Biotechnological processes hold tremendous potential for the efficient and sustainable conversion of one-carbon (C1) substrates into complex multi-carbon products. However, the development of robust and versatile biocatalytic systems for this purpose remains a significant challenge. In this study, we report a hybrid electrochemical-biochemical cell-free system for the conversion of C1 substrates into the universal biological building block acetyl-CoA. The synthetic reductive formate pathway (ReForm) consists of five core enzymes catalyzing non-natural reactions that were established through a cell-free enzyme engineering platform. We demonstrate that ReForm works in a plug-and-play manner to accept diverse C1 substrates including CO2 equivalents. We anticipate that ReForm will facilitate efforts to build and improve synthetic C1 utilization pathways for a formate-based bioeconomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant M. Landwehr
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Bastian Vogeli
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Cong Tian
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Bharti Singal
- Stanford SLAC CryoEM Initiative, Stanford University; Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Anika Gupta
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Rebeca Lion
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Edward H. Sargent
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Ashty S. Karim
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Michael C. Jewett
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University; Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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21
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Cui Z, Ding M, Dai W, Zheng M, Wang Z, Chen T. Design of a synthetic enzyme cascade for the in vitro fixation of formaldehyde to acetoin. Enzyme Microb Technol 2024; 178:110446. [PMID: 38626535 DOI: 10.1016/j.enzmictec.2024.110446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Formaldehyde (FALD) has gained prominence as an essential C1 building block in the synthesis of valuable chemicals. However, there are still challenges in converting FALD into commodities. Recently, cell-free biocatalysis has emerged as a popular approach for producing such commodities. Acetoin, also known as 3-hydroxy-2-butanone, has been widely used in food, cosmetic, agricultural and the chemical industry. It is valuable to develop a process to produce acetoin from FALD. In this study, a cell-free multi-enzyme catalytic system for the production of acetoin using FALD as the substrate was designed and constructed. It included three scales: FALD utilization pathway, glycolysis pathway and acetoin synthesis pathway. After the optimization of the reaction system, 20.17 mM acetoin was produced from 122 mM FALD, with a yield of 0.165 mol/mol, reaching 99.0% of the theoretical yield. The pathway provides a new approach for high-yield acetoin production from FALD, which consolidates the foundation for the production of high value-added chemicals using cheap one-carbon compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Cui
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China; Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Mengnan Ding
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China; Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Dai
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China; Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Meiyu Zheng
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China; Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhiwen Wang
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China; Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China; Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China.
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22
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Gui X, Li F, Cui X, Wu R, Liu D, Ma C, Ma L, Jiang H, You C, Zhu Z. A Light-Driven In Vitro Enzymatic Biosystem for the Synthesis of α-Farnesene from Methanol. BIODESIGN RESEARCH 2024; 6:0039. [PMID: 39081856 PMCID: PMC11286291 DOI: 10.34133/bdr.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Terpenoids of substantial industrial interest are mainly obtained through direct extraction from plant sources. Recently, microbial cell factories or in vitro enzymatic biosystems have emerged as promising alternatives for terpenoid production. Here, we report a route for the synthesis of α-farnesene based on an in vitro enzyme cascade reaction using methanol as an inexpensive and renewable C1 substrate. Thirteen biocatalytic reactions divided into 2 modules were optimized and coupled to achieve methanol-to-α-farnesene conversion via integration with natural thylakoid membranes as a green energy engine. This in vitro enzymatic biosystem driven by light enabled the production of 1.43 and 2.40 mg liter-1 α-farnesene using methanol and the intermediate glycolaldehyde as substrates, respectively. This work could provide a promising strategy for developing light-powered in vitro biosynthetic platforms to produce more natural compounds synthesized from C1 substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Gui
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, The College of Biotechnology,
Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, TianjinInstitute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Fei Li
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, TianjinInstitute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Xinyu Cui
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, TianjinInstitute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ranran Wu
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, TianjinInstitute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Dingyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, TianjinInstitute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Chunling Ma
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, TianjinInstitute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Lijuan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, The College of Biotechnology,
Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Huifeng Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, TianjinInstitute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chun You
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhiguang Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, TianjinInstitute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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23
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Liu X, Li L, Zhao G, Xiong P. Optimization strategies for CO 2 biological fixation. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 73:108364. [PMID: 38642673 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Global sustainable development faces a significant challenge in effectively utilizing CO2. Meanwhile, CO2 biological fixation offers a promising solution. CO2 has the highest oxidation state (+4 valence state), whereas typical multi‑carbon chemicals have lower valence states. The Gibbs free energy (ΔG) changes of CO2 reductive reactions are generally positive and this renders it necessary to input different forms of energy. Although biological carbon fixation processes are friendly to operate, the thermodynamic obstacles must be overcome. To make this reaction occur favorably and efficiently, diverse strategies to enhance CO2 biological fixation efficiency have been proposed by numerous researchers. This article reviews recent advances in optimizing CO2 biological fixation and intends to provide new insights into achieving efficient biological utilization of CO2. It first outlines the thermodynamic characteristics of diverse carbon fixation reactions and proposes optimization directions for CO2 biological fixation. A comprehensive overview of the catalytic mechanisms, optimization strategies, and challenges encountered by common carbon-fixing enzymes is then provided. Subsequently, potential routes for improving the efficiency of biological carbon fixation are discussed, including the ATP supply, reducing power supply, energy supply, reactor design, and carbon enrichment system modules. In addition, effective artificial carbon fixation pathways were summarized and analyzed. Finally, prospects are made for the research direction of continuously improving the efficiency of biological carbon fixation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiutao Liu
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, 255000 Zibo, China; International Joint Laboratory on Extremophilic Bacteria and Biological Synthesis, Shandong University of Technology, 255000 Zibo, China.
| | - Linqing Li
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, 255000 Zibo, China; International Joint Laboratory on Extremophilic Bacteria and Biological Synthesis, Shandong University of Technology, 255000 Zibo, China
| | - Guang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, 266237 Qingdao, China.
| | - Peng Xiong
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, 255000 Zibo, China; International Joint Laboratory on Extremophilic Bacteria and Biological Synthesis, Shandong University of Technology, 255000 Zibo, China.
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24
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Guan A, He Z, Wang X, Jia ZJ, Qin J. Engineering the next-generation synthetic cell factory driven by protein engineering. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 73:108366. [PMID: 38663492 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic cell factory offers substantial advantages in economically efficient production of biofuels, chemicals, and pharmaceutical compounds. However, to create a high-performance synthetic cell factory, precise regulation of cellular material and energy flux is essential. In this context, protein components including enzymes, transcription factor-based biosensors and transporters play pivotal roles. Protein engineering aims to create novel protein variants with desired properties by modifying or designing protein sequences. This review focuses on summarizing the latest advancements of protein engineering in optimizing various aspects of synthetic cell factory, including: enhancing enzyme activity to eliminate production bottlenecks, altering enzyme selectivity to steer metabolic pathways towards desired products, modifying enzyme promiscuity to explore innovative routes, and improving the efficiency of transporters. Furthermore, the utilization of protein engineering to modify protein-based biosensors accelerates evolutionary process and optimizes the regulation of metabolic pathways. The remaining challenges and future opportunities in this field are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailin Guan
- College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Zixi He
- College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Xin Wang
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhi-Jun Jia
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jiufu Qin
- College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
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25
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Yang J, Li Z, Xu Q, Liu W, Gao S, Qin P, Chen Z, Wang A. Towards carbon neutrality: Sustainable recycling and upcycling strategies and mechanisms for polyethylene terephthalate via biotic/abiotic pathways. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH 2024; 3:117-130. [PMID: 38638172 PMCID: PMC11021832 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), one of the most ubiquitous engineering plastics, presents both environmental challenges and opportunities for carbon neutrality and a circular economy. This review comprehensively addressed the latest developments in biotic and abiotic approaches for PET recycling/upcycling. Biotically, microbial depolymerization of PET, along with the biosynthesis of reclaimed monomers [terephthalic acid (TPA), ethylene glycol (EG)] to value-added products, presents an alternative for managing PET waste and enables CO2 reduction. Abiotically, thermal treatments (i.e., hydrolysis, glycolysis, methanolysis, etc.) and photo/electrocatalysis, enabled by catalysis advances, can depolymerize or convert PET/PET monomers in a more flexible, simple, fast, and controllable manner. Tandem abiotic/biotic catalysis offers great potential for PET upcycling to generate commodity chemicals and alternative materials, ideally at lower energy inputs, greenhouse gas emissions, and costs, compared to virgin polymer fabrication. Remarkably, over 25 types of upgraded PET products (e.g., adipic acid, muconic acid, catechol, vanillin, and glycolic acid, etc.) have been identified, underscoring the potential of PET upcycling in diverse applications. Efforts can be made to develop chemo-catalytic depolymerization of PET, improve microbial depolymerization of PET (e.g., hydrolysis efficiency, enzymatic activity, thermal and pH level stability, etc.), as well as identify new microorganisms or hydrolases capable of degrading PET through computational and machine learning algorithms. Consequently, this review provides a roadmap for advancing PET recycling and upcycling technologies, which hold the potential to shape the future of PET waste management and contribute to the preservation of our ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Yang
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhiling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Qiongying Xu
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wenzong Liu
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shuhong Gao
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Peiwu Qin
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhenglin Chen
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Aijie Wang
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
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Chen Q, Chen Y, Hou Z, Ma Y, Huang J, Zhang Z, Chen Y, Yang X, Zhang Y, Zhao G. Unlocking the formate utilization of wild-type Yarrowia lipolytica through adaptive laboratory evolution. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2400290. [PMID: 38900053 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202400290] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic biology is contributing to the advancement of the global net-negative carbon economy, with emphasis on formate as a member of the one-carbon substrate garnering substantial attention. In this study, we employed base editing tools to facilitate adaptive evolution, achieving a formate tolerance of Yarrowia lipolytica to 1 M within 2 months. This effort resulted in two mutant strains, designated as M25-70 and M25-14, both exhibiting significantly enhanced formate utilization capabilities. Transcriptomic analysis revealed the upregulation of nine endogenous genes encoding formate dehydrogenases when cultivated utilizing formate as the sole carbon source. Furthermore, we uncovered the pivotal role of the glyoxylate and threonine-based serine pathway in enhancing glycine supply to promote formate assimilation. The full potential of Y. lipolytica to tolerate and utilize formate establishing the foundation for pyruvate carboxylase-based carbon sequestration pathways. Importantly, this study highlights the existence of a natural formate metabolic pathway in Y. lipolytica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Yunhong Chen
- Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Zeming Hou
- Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuyue Ma
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Jianfeng Huang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhidan Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Yefu Chen
- Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Xue Yang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanfei Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Guoping Zhao
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
- CAS-Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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27
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Cheng G, Sun H, Wang Q, Yang J, Qiao J, Zhong C, Cai T, Wang Y. Scanning the active center of formolase to identify key residues for enhanced C1 to C3 bioconversion. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2024; 11:48. [PMID: 38735884 PMCID: PMC11089019 DOI: 10.1186/s40643-024-00767-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Formolase (FLS) is a computationally designed enzyme that catalyzes the carboligation of two or three C1 formaldehyde molecules into C2 glycolaldehyde or C3 dihydroxyacetone (DHA). FLS lays the foundation for several artificial carbon fixation and valorization pathways, such as the artificial starch anabolic pathway. However, the application of FLS is limited by its low catalytic activity and product promiscuity. FINDINGS FLS, designed and engineered based on benzoylformate decarboxylase from Pseudomonas putida, was selected as a candidate for modification. To evaluate its catalytic activity, 25 residues located within an 8 Å distance from the active center were screened using single-point saturation mutagenesis. A screening approach based on the color reaction of the DHA product was applied to identify the desired FLS variants. After screening approximately 5,000 variants (approximately 200 transformants per site), several amino acid sites that were not identified by directed evolution were found to improve DHA formation. The serine-to-phenylalanine substitution at position 236 improved the activity towards DHA formation by 7.6-fold. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested that the mutation increased local hydrophobicity at the active site, predisposing the cofactor-C2 intermediate to nucleophilic attack by the third formaldehyde molecule for subsequent DHA generation. CONCLUSIONS This study provides improved FLS variants and valuable information into the influence of residues adjacent to the active center affecting catalytic efficiency, which can guide the rational engineering or directed evolution of FLS to optimize its performance in artificial carbon fixation and valorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guimin Cheng
- College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300222, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongbing Sun
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinxing Yang
- School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jing Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Zhong
- College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300222, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Cai
- Haihe Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, China.
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, China.
| | - Yu Wang
- Haihe Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, China.
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, China.
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28
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Li Y, Cao M, Gupta VK, Wang Y. Metabolic engineering strategies to enable microbial electrosynthesis utilization of CO 2: recent progress and challenges. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2024; 44:352-372. [PMID: 36775662 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2023.2167065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) is a promising technology that mainly utilizes microbial cells to convert CO2 into value-added chemicals using electrons provided by the cathode. However, the low electron transfer rate is a solid bottleneck hindering the further application of MES. Thus, as an effective strategy, genetic tools play a key role in MES for enhancing the electron transfer rate and diversity of production. We describe a set of genetic strategies based on fundamental characteristics and current successes and discuss their functional mechanisms in driving microbial electrocatalytic reactions to fully comprehend the roles and uses of genetic tools in MES. This paper also analyzes the process of nanomaterial application in extracellular electron transfer (EET). It provides a technique that combines nanomaterials and genetic tools to increase MES efficiency, because nanoparticles have a role in the production of functional genes in EET although genetic tools can subvert MES, it still has issues with difficult transformation and low expression levels. Genetic tools remain one of the most promising future strategies for advancing the MES process despite these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Li
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biotechnology of Xiamen City, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Mingfeng Cao
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biotechnology of Xiamen City, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen, China
| | - Vijai Kumar Gupta
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Center, SRUC, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Yuanpeng Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biotechnology of Xiamen City, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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29
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Wei X, Yang X, Hu C, Li Q, Liu Q, Wu Y, Xie L, Ning X, Li F, Cai T, Zhu Z, Zhang YHPJ, Zhang Y, Chen X, You C. ATP-free in vitro biotransformation of starch-derived maltodextrin into poly-3-hydroxybutyrate via acetyl-CoA. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3267. [PMID: 38627361 PMCID: PMC11021460 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46871-y] [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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In vitro biotransformation (ivBT) facilitated by in vitro synthetic enzymatic biosystems (ivSEBs) has emerged as a highly promising biosynthetic platform. Several ivSEBs have been constructed to produce poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) via acetyl-coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA). However, some systems are hindered by their reliance on costly ATP, limiting their practicality. This study presents the design of an ATP-free ivSEB for one-pot PHB biosynthesis via acetyl-CoA utilizing starch-derived maltodextrin as the sole substrate. Stoichiometric analysis indicates this ivSEB can self-maintain NADP+/NADPH balance and achieve a theoretical molar yield of 133.3%. Leveraging simple one-pot reactions, our ivSEBs achieved a near-theoretical molar yield of 125.5%, the highest PHB titer (208.3 mM, approximately 17.9 g/L) and the fastest PHB production rate (9.4 mM/h, approximately 0.8 g/L/h) among all the reported ivSEBs to date, and demonstrated easy scalability. This study unveils the promising potential of ivBT for the industrial-scale production of PHB and other acetyl-CoA-derived chemicals from starch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlei Wei
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Yang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Congcong Hu
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Industrial Microbiology Key Laboratory, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin, 300457, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiangzi Li
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqian Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Wu
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Leipeng Xie
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Ning
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Li
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Cai
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiguang Zhu
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Heng P Job Zhang
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanfei Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Chen
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun You
- In vitro Synthetic Biology Center, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32 West 7th Avenue, Tianjin Airport Economic Area, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, People's Republic of China.
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.
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Schulz-Mirbach H, Dronsella B, He H, Erb TJ. Creating new-to-nature carbon fixation: A guide. Metab Eng 2024; 82:12-28. [PMID: 38160747 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2023.12.012] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic biology aims at designing new biological functions from first principles. These new designs allow to expand the natural solution space and overcome the limitations of naturally evolved systems. One example is synthetic CO2-fixation pathways that promise to provide more efficient ways for the capture and conversion of CO2 than natural pathways, such as the Calvin Benson Bassham (CBB) cycle of photosynthesis. In this review, we provide a practical guideline for the design and realization of such new-to-nature CO2-fixation pathways. We introduce the concept of "synthetic CO2-fixation", and give a general overview over the enzymology and topology of synthetic pathways, before we derive general principles for their design from their eight naturally evolved analogs. We provide a comprehensive summary of synthetic carbon-assimilation pathways and derive a step-by-step, practical guide from the theoretical design to their practical implementation, before ending with an outlook on new developments in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Schulz-Mirbach
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Beau Dronsella
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany; Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Hai He
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Tobias J Erb
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany; Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO), Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 16, D-35043, Marburg, Germany.
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31
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Nie M, Wang J, Zhang K. Engineering a Novel Acetyl-CoA Pathway for Efficient Biosynthesis of Acetyl-CoA-Derived Compounds. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:358-369. [PMID: 38151239 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Acetyl-CoA is an essential central metabolite in living organisms and a key precursor for various value-added products as well. However, the intracellular availability of acetyl-CoA limits the efficient production of these target products due to complex and strict regulation. Here, we proposed a new acetyl-CoA pathway, relying on two enzymes, threonine aldolase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (acetylating), which can convert one l-threonine into one acetyl-CoA, one glycine, and generate one NADH, without carbon loss. Introducing the acetyl-CoA pathway could increase the intracellular concentration of acetyl-CoA by 8.6-fold compared with the wild-type strain. To develop a cost-competitive and genetically stable acetyl-CoA platform strain, the new acetyl-CoA pathway, driven by the constitutive strong promoter, was integrated into the chromosome of Escherichia coli. We demonstrated the practical application of this new acetyl-CoA pathway by high titer production of β-alanine, mevalonate, and N-acetylglucosamine. At the same time, this pathway achieved a high-yield production of glycine, a value-added commodity chemical for the synthesis of glyphosate and thiamphenicol. This work shows the potential of this new acetyl-CoA pathway for the industrial production of acetyl-CoA-derived compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengzhen Nie
- Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, China
- Center of Synthetic Biology and Integrated Bioengineering, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310030, China
| | - Jingyu Wang
- Center of Synthetic Biology and Integrated Bioengineering, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310030, China
| | - Kechun Zhang
- Center of Synthetic Biology and Integrated Bioengineering, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310030, China
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Ducrot L, López IL, Orrego AH, López-Gallego F. Coenzyme A Thioester Intermediates as Platform Molecules in Cell-Free Chemical Biomanufacturing. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300673. [PMID: 37994376 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
The in vitro synthesis of Coenzyme A (CoA)-thioester intermediates opens new avenues to transform simple molecules into more complex and multifunctional ones by assembling cell-free biosynthetic cascades. In this review, we have systematically cataloged known CoA-dependent enzyme reactions that have been successfully implemented in vitro. To faciliate their identification, we provide their UniProt ID when available. Based on this catalog, we have organized enzymes into three modules: activation, modification, and removal. i) The activation module includes enzymes capable of fusing CoA with organic molecules. ii) The modification module includes enzymes capable of catalyzing chemical modifications in the structure of acyl-CoA intermediates. And iii) the removal module includes enzymes able to remove the CoA and release an organic molecule different from the one activated in the upstream. Based on these reactions, we constructed a reaction network that summarizes the most relevant CoA-dependent biosynthetic pathways reported until today. From the information available in the articles, we have plotted the total turnover number of CoA as a function of the product titer, observing a positive correlation between both parameters. Therefore, the success of a CoA-dependent in vitro pathway depends on its ability to regenerate CoA, but also to regenerate other cofactors such as NAD(P)H and ATP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurine Ducrot
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Paseo de Miramón 194, Donostia-San Sebastián, 20014, Spain
| | - Idania L López
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Paseo de Miramón 194, Donostia-San Sebastián, 20014, Spain
| | - Alejandro H Orrego
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Paseo de Miramón 194, Donostia-San Sebastián, 20014, Spain
| | - Fernando López-Gallego
- Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Paseo de Miramón 194, Donostia-San Sebastián, 20014, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009, Bilbao, Spain
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Yang X, Zhang Y, Zhao G. Artificial carbon assimilation: From unnatural reactions and pathways to synthetic autotrophic systems. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 70:108294. [PMID: 38013126 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic biology is being increasingly used to establish novel carbon assimilation pathways and artificial autotrophic strains that can be used in low-carbon biomanufacturing. Currently, artificial pathway design has made significant progress from advocacy to practice within a relatively short span of just over ten years. However, there is still huge scope for exploration of pathway diversity, operational efficiency, and host suitability. The accelerated research process will bring greater opportunities and challenges. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive summary and interpretation of representative one-carbon assimilation pathway designs and artificial autotrophic strain construction work. In addition, we propose some feasible design solutions based on existing research results and patterns to promote the development and application of artificial autotrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China; National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin 300308, China; Haihe Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Yanfei Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China; National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin 300308, China.
| | - Guoping Zhao
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin 300308, China; CAS-Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China.
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Zhao ZM, Liu ZH, Zhang T, Meng R, Gong Z, Li Y, Hu J, Ragauskas AJ, Li BZ, Yuan YJ. Unleashing the capacity of Rhodococcus for converting lignin into lipids. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 70:108274. [PMID: 37913947 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Bioconversion of bioresources/wastes (e.g., lignin, chemical pulping byproducts) represents a promising approach for developing a bioeconomy to help address growing energy and materials demands. Rhodococcus, a promising microbial strain, utilizes numerous carbon sources to produce lipids, which are precursors for synthesizing biodiesel and aviation fuels. However, compared to chemical conversion, bioconversion involves living cells, which is a more complex system that needs further understanding and upgrading. Various wastes amenable to bioconversion are reviewed herein to highlight the potential of Rhodococci for producing lipid-derived bioproducts. In light of the abundant availability of these substrates, Rhodococcus' metabolic pathways converting them to lipids are analyzed from a "beginning-to-end" view. Based on an in-depth understanding of microbial metabolic routes, genetic modifications of Rhodococcus by employing emerging tools (e.g., multiplex genome editing, biosensors, and genome-scale metabolic models) are presented for promoting the bioconversion. Co-solvent enhanced lignocellulose fractionation (CELF) strategy facilitates the generation of a lignin-derived aromatic stream suitable for the Rhodococcus' utilization. Novel alkali sterilization (AS) and elimination of thermal sterilization (ETS) approaches can significantly enhance the bioaccessibility of lignin and its derived aromatics in aqueous fermentation media, which promotes lipid titer significantly. In order to achieve value-added utilization of lignin, biodiesel and aviation fuel synthesis from lignin and lipids are further discussed. The possible directions for unleashing the capacity of Rhodococcus through synergistically modifying microbial strains, substrates, and fermentation processes are proposed toward a sustainable biological lignin valorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Min Zhao
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States; Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau (Ministry of Education), School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Zhi-Hua Liu
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Tongtong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau (Ministry of Education), School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Rongqian Meng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau (Ministry of Education), School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Zhiqun Gong
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau (Ministry of Education), School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Yibing Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau (Ministry of Education), School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Jing Hu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau (Ministry of Education), School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China
| | - Arthur J Ragauskas
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States; Joint Institute of Biological Science, Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN 37831, United States; Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Center for Renewable Carbon, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN 37996, United States.
| | - Bing-Zhi Li
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Ying-Jin Yuan
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
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35
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Kim JH, Cheon H, Jo HJ, Kim JW, Kim GY, Seo HR, Seo PW, Kim JS, Park JB. Engineering of two thiamine diphosphate-dependent enzymes for the regioselective condensation of C1-formaldehyde into C4-erythrulose. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127674. [PMID: 37890751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
A number of carboligases, which catalyze condensation of C1- and/or C2-aldehydes into multi-carbon products, have been reported. However, their catalytic activities and/or regioselectivities remained rather low. Thereby, this study has focused on engineering of C1 and C2 carboligases for the regioselective condensation of C1-formaldehyde into C4-erythrulose via C2-glycolaldehyde. The crystal structure of the glyoxylate carboligase from Escherichia coli (EcGCL) was elucidated in complex with glycolaldehyde. A structure-guided rationale generated several mutants, one of whose catalytic activity reached 15.6 M-1·s-1, almost 10 times greater than the wild-type enzyme. Another variant (i.e., EcGCL_R484M/N283Q/L478M/M488L/R284K) has shown significantly increased stability to the glycolaldehyde toxicity, enabling production of glycolaldehyde to 31 mM from 75 mM formaldehyde (conversion: 83 %). Besides, the E1 subunit of α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex from Vibrio vulnificus (VvSucA) was engineered as a regiospecific C2 carboligase for condensation of glycolaldehyde into erythrulose. The combination of EcGCL_R484M/N283Q/L478M/M488L/R284K and VvSucA_K228L led to the cascade production of erythrulose to 8 mM from 90 mM formaldehyde via glycolaldehyde without byproduct formation. This study will contribute to valorization of C1 gases into industrially relevant multi-carbon products in an environment-friendly way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hong Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Huijin Cheon
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Jin Jo
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Won Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga Young Kim
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Rim Seo
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Pil-Won Seo
- Department of Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Sun Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jin-Byung Park
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea.
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36
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Wu T, Gómez-Coronado PA, Kubis A, Lindner SN, Marlière P, Erb TJ, Bar-Even A, He H. Engineering a synthetic energy-efficient formaldehyde assimilation cycle in Escherichia coli. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8490. [PMID: 38123535 PMCID: PMC10733421 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44247-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
One-carbon (C1) substrates, such as methanol or formate, are attractive feedstocks for circular bioeconomy. These substrates are typically converted into formaldehyde, serving as the entry point into metabolism. Here, we design an erythrulose monophosphate (EuMP) cycle for formaldehyde assimilation, leveraging a promiscuous dihydroxyacetone phosphate dependent aldolase as key enzyme. In silico modeling reveals that the cycle is highly energy-efficient, holding the potential for high bioproduct yields. Dissecting the EuMP into four modules, we use a stepwise strategy to demonstrate in vivo feasibility of the modules in E. coli sensor strains with sarcosine as formaldehyde source. From adaptive laboratory evolution for module integration, we identify key mutations enabling the accommodation of the EuMP reactions with endogenous metabolism. Overall, our study demonstrates the proof-of-concept for a highly efficient, new-to-nature formaldehyde assimilation pathway, opening a way for the development of a methylotrophic platform for a C1-fueled bioeconomy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wu
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Biochemistry, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Paul A Gómez-Coronado
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Armin Kubis
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Steffen N Lindner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Biochemistry, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Philippe Marlière
- TESSSI, The European Syndicate of Synthetic Scientists and Industrialists, 81 rue Réaumur, 75002, Paris, France
| | - Tobias J Erb
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Arren Bar-Even
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany
| | - Hai He
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam-Golm, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany.
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37
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Sokolova N, Peng B, Haslinger K. Design and engineering of artificial biosynthetic pathways-where do we stand and where do we go? FEBS Lett 2023; 597:2897-2907. [PMID: 37777818 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14745] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
The production of commodity and specialty chemicals relies heavily on fossil fuels. The negative impact of this dependency on our environment and climate has spurred a rising demand for more sustainable methods to obtain such chemicals from renewable resources. Herein, biotransformations of these renewable resources facilitated by enzymes or (micro)organisms have gained significant attention, since they can occur under mild conditions and reduce waste. These biotransformations typically leverage natural metabolic processes, which limits the scope and production capacity of such processes. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of advancements made in the past 5 years to expand the repertoire of biotransformations in engineered microorganisms. This ranges from redesign of existing pathways driven by retrobiosynthesis and computational design to directed evolution of enzymes and de novo pathway design to unlock novel routes for the synthesis of desired chemicals. We highlight notable examples of pathway designs for the production of commodity and specialty chemicals, showcasing the potential of these approaches. Lastly, we provide an outlook on future pathway design approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nika Sokolova
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kristina Haslinger
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
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Qiao Y, Ma W, Zhang S, Guo F, Liu K, Jiang Y, Wang Y, Xin F, Zhang W, Jiang M. Artificial multi-enzyme cascades and whole-cell transformation for bioconversion of C1 compounds: Advances, challenge and perspectives. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2023; 8:578-583. [PMID: 37706206 PMCID: PMC10495606 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial multi-enzyme cascades bear great potential for bioconversion of C1 compounds to value-added chemicals. Over the past decade, massive efforts have been devoted to constructing multi-enzyme cascades to produce glycolic acid, rare functional sugars and even starch from C1 compounds. However, in contrast to traditional fermentation utilizing C1 compounds with the expectation of competitive economic performance in future industrialization, multi-enzyme cascades systems in the proof-of-concept phase are facing the challenges of upscaling. Here, we offered an overview of the recent advances in the construction of in vitro multi-enzyme cascades and whole-cell transformation using C1 compounds as substrate. In addition, the existing challenges and possible solutions were also discussed aiming to combine the strengths of in vitro and in vivo multi-enzyme cascades systems for upscaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyi Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Wenyue Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Shangjie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Feng Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Kang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Yujia Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Yanxia Wang
- College of Food Science and Light Industry, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Fengxue Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Wenming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
| | - Min Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211800, PR China
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Chen G, Bao B, Cheng Y, Tian M, Song J, Zheng L, Tong Q. Acetyl-CoA metabolism as a therapeutic target for cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115741. [PMID: 37864899 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Acetyl-coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA), an essential metabolite, not only takes part in numerous intracellular metabolic processes, powers the tricarboxylic acid cycle, serves as a key hub for the biosynthesis of fatty acids and isoprenoids, but also serves as a signaling substrate for acetylation reactions in post-translational modification of proteins, which is crucial for the epigenetic inheritance of cells. Acetyl-CoA links lipid metabolism with histone acetylation to create a more intricate regulatory system that affects the growth, aggressiveness, and drug resistance of malignancies such as glioblastoma, breast cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. These fascinating advances in the knowledge of acetyl-CoA metabolism during carcinogenesis and normal physiology have raised interest regarding its modulation in malignancies. In this review, we provide an overview of the regulation and cancer relevance of main metabolic pathways in which acetyl-CoA participates. We also summarize the role of acetyl-CoA in the metabolic reprogramming and stress regulation of cancer cells, as well as medical application of inhibitors targeting its dysregulation in therapeutic intervention of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Chen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Banghe Bao
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Yang Cheng
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Minxiu Tian
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Jiyu Song
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Liduan Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, PR China.
| | - Qiangsong Tong
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan 430022, Hubei Province, PR China.
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40
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Wagner N, Wen L, Frazão CJR, Walther T. Next-generation feedstocks methanol and ethylene glycol and their potential in industrial biotechnology. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 69:108276. [PMID: 37918546 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Microbial fermentation processes are expected to play an important role in reducing dependence on fossil-based raw materials for the production of everyday chemicals. In order to meet the growing demand for biotechnological products in the future, alternative carbon sources that do not compete with human nutrition must be exploited. The chemical conversion of the industrially emitted greenhouse gas CO2 into microbially utilizable platform chemicals such as methanol represents a sustainable strategy for the utilization of an abundant carbon source and has attracted enormous scientific interest in recent years. A relatively new approach is the microbial synthesis of products from the C2-compound ethylene glycol, which can also be synthesized from CO2 and non-edible biomass and, in addition, can be recovered from plastic waste. Here we summarize the main chemical routes for the synthesis of methanol and ethylene glycol from sustainable resources and give an overview of recent metabolic engineering work for establishing natural and synthetic microbial assimilation pathways. The different metabolic routes for C1 and C2 alcohol-dependent bioconversions were compared in terms of their theoretical maximum yields and their oxygen requirements for a wide range of value-added products. Assessment of the process engineering challenges for methanol and ethylene glycol-based fermentations underscores the theoretical advantages of new synthetic metabolic routes and advocates greater consideration of ethylene glycol, a C2 substrate that has received comparatively little attention to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Wagner
- TU Dresden, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Linxuan Wen
- TU Dresden, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Cláudio J R Frazão
- TU Dresden, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Walther
- TU Dresden, Institute of Natural Materials Technology, Bergstraße 120, 01062 Dresden, Germany.
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41
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Luo Z, Shi JT, Chen XL, Chen J, Liu F, Wei LJ, Hua Q. Iterative gene integration mediated by 26S rDNA and non-homologous end joining for the efficient production of lycopene in Yarrowia lipolytica. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2023; 10:83. [PMID: 38647953 PMCID: PMC10992032 DOI: 10.1186/s40643-023-00697-6] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Because of its potent antioxidant effects, lycopene has been used in various industries including, but not limited to, food, medical, and cosmetic industries. Yarrowia lipolytica, a non-conventional yeast species, is a promising chassis due to its natural mevalonate (MVA) pathway, abundant precursor acetyl coenzyme A content, and oleaginous properties. Several gene editing tools have been developed for Y. lipolytica along with engineering strategies for tetraterpenoid production. In this study, we engineered Y. lipolytica following multi-level strategies for efficient lycopene accumulation. We first evaluated the performance of the key lycopene biosynthetic genes crtE, crtB, and crtI, expressed via ribosomal DNA (rDNA) mediated multicopy random integration in the HMG1- and GGS1-overexpressing background strain. Further improvement in lycopene production was achieved by overexpressing the key genes for MVA synthesis via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) mediated multi-round iterative transformation. Efficient strategies in the MVA and lipid synthesis pathways were combined to improve lycopene production with a yield of 430.5 mg/L. This strain produced 121 mg/g dry cell weight of lycopene in a 5-L fed-batch fermentation system. Our findings demonstrated iterative gene integration mediated by 26S rDNA and NHEJ for the efficient production of lycopene in Y. lipolytica. These strategies can be applied to induce Y. lipolytica to produce other tetraterpenoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Ting Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Liang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China
| | - Liu-Jing Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qiang Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomanufacturing Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, China.
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42
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Sheng Y, Guo F, Guo B, Wang N, Sun Y, Liu H, Feng X, Han Q, Yu Y, Li C. Light-Driven CO 2 Reduction with a Surface-Displayed Enzyme Cascade-C 3N 4 Hybrid. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:2715-2724. [PMID: 37651305 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Efficient and cost-effective conversion of CO2 to biomass holds the potential to address the climate crisis. Light-driven CO2 conversion can be realized by combining inorganic semiconductors with enzymes or cells. However, designing enzyme cascades for converting CO2 to multicarbon compounds is challenging, and inorganic semiconductors often possess cytotoxicity. Therefore, there is a critical need for a straightforward semiconductor biohybrid system for CO2 conversion. Here, we used a visible-light-responsive and biocompatible C3N4 porous nanosheet, decorated with formate dehydrogenase, formaldehyde dehydrogenase, and alcohol dehydrogenase to establish an enzyme-photocoupled catalytic system, which showed a remarkable CO2-to-methanol conversion efficiency with an apparent quantum efficiency of 2.48% in the absence of externally added electron mediator. To further enable the in situ transformation of methanol into biomass, the enzymes were displayed on the surface of Komagataella phaffii, which was further coupled with C3N4 to create an organic semiconductor-enzyme-cell hybrid system. Methanol was produced through enzyme-photocoupled CO2 reduction, achieving a rate of 4.07 mg/(L·h), comparable with reported rates from photocatalytic systems employing mediators or photoelectrochemical cells. The produced methanol can subsequently be transported into the cell and converted into biomass. This work presents a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective enzyme-photocoupled biocatalytic system for efficient solar-driven conversion of CO2 within a microbial cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukai Sheng
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Fang Guo
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Bingchen Guo
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Yiyang Sun
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Hu Liu
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Xudong Feng
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Qing Han
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Key Laboratory of Cluster Science, Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, Ministry of Education of China, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Chun Li
- Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
- Key Laboratory for Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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43
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Gan Y, Meng X, Gao C, Song W, Liu L, Chen X. Metabolic engineering strategies for microbial utilization of methanol. ENGINEERING MICROBIOLOGY 2023; 3:100081. [PMID: 39628934 PMCID: PMC11611044 DOI: 10.1016/j.engmic.2023.100081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2024]
Abstract
The increasing shortage of fossil resources and environmental pollution has renewed interest in the synthesis of value-added biochemicals from methanol. However, most of native or synthetic methylotrophs are unable to assimilate methanol at a sufficient rate to produce biochemicals. Thus, the performance of methylotrophs still needs to be optimized to meet the demands of industrial applications. In this review, we provide an in-depth discussion on the properties of natural and synthetic methylotrophs, and summarize the natural and synthetic methanol assimilation pathways. Further, we discuss metabolic engineering strategies for enabling microbial utilization of methanol for the bioproduction of value-added chemicals. Finally, we highlight the potential of microbial engineering for methanol assimilation and offer guidance for achieving a low-carbon footprint for the biosynthesis of chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xin Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Cong Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Wei Song
- School of Life Sciences and Health Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Liming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiulai Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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44
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Liu L, Li J, Gai Y, Tian Z, Wang Y, Wang T, Liu P, Yuan Q, Ma H, Lee SY, Zhang D. Protein engineering and iterative multimodule optimization for vitamin B 6 production in Escherichia coli. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5304. [PMID: 37652926 PMCID: PMC10471632 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40928-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient with extensive applications in the medicine, food, animal feed, and cosmetics industries. Pyridoxine (PN), the most common commercial form of vitamin B6, is currently chemically synthesized using expensive and toxic chemicals. However, the low catalytic efficiencies of natural enzymes and the tight regulation of the metabolic pathway have hindered PN production by the microbial fermentation process. Here, we report an engineered Escherichia coli strain for PN production. Parallel pathway engineering is performed to decouple PN production and cell growth. Further, protein engineering is rationally designed including the inefficient enzymes PdxA, PdxJ, and the initial enzymes Epd and Dxs. By the iterative multimodule optimization strategy, the final strain produces 1.4 g/L of PN with productivity of 29.16 mg/L/h by fed-batch fermentation. The strategies reported here will be useful for developing microbial strains for the production of vitamins and other bioproducts having inherently low metabolic fluxes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxia Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinlong Li
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanming Gai
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhizhong Tian
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanyan Wang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Tenghe Wang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Pi Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Qianqian Yuan
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongwu Ma
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China
| | - Sang Yup Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 four program), Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dawei Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China.
- National Technology Innovation Center of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, China.
- Key Laboratory of Engineering Biology for Low-Carbon Manufacturing, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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45
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Bayer T, Hänel L, Husarcikova J, Kunzendorf A, Bornscheuer UT. In Vivo Detection of Low Molecular Weight Platform Chemicals and Environmental Contaminants by Genetically Encoded Biosensors. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:23227-23239. [PMID: 37426270 PMCID: PMC10324065 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c01741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Genetically encoded biosensor systems operating in living cells are versatile, cheap, and transferable tools for the detection and quantification of a broad range of small molecules. This review presents state-of-the-art biosensor designs and assemblies, featuring transcription factor-, riboswitch-, and enzyme-coupled devices, highly engineered fluorescent probes, and emerging two-component systems. Importantly, (bioinformatic-assisted) strategies to resolve contextual issues, which cause biosensors to miss performance criteria in vivo, are highlighted. The optimized biosensing circuits can be used to monitor chemicals of low molecular mass (<200 g mol-1) and physicochemical properties that challenge conventional chromatographical methods with high sensitivity. Examples herein include but are not limited to formaldehyde, formate, and pyruvate as immediate products from (synthetic) pathways for the fixation of carbon dioxide (CO2), industrially important derivatives like small- and medium-chain fatty acids and biofuels, as well as environmental toxins such as heavy metals or reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Lastly, this review showcases biosensors capable of assessing the biosynthesis of platform chemicals from renewable resources, the enzymatic degradation of plastic waste, or the bioadsorption of highly toxic chemicals from the environment. These applications offer new biosensor-based manufacturing, recycling, and remediation strategies to tackle current and future environmental and socioeconomic challenges including the wastage of fossil fuels, the emission of greenhouse gases like CO2, and the pollution imposed on ecosystems and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Bayer
- Department of Biotechnology
and Enzyme Catalysis, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Strasse 4, 17487 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Luise Hänel
- Department of Biotechnology
and Enzyme Catalysis, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Strasse 4, 17487 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jana Husarcikova
- Department of Biotechnology
and Enzyme Catalysis, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Strasse 4, 17487 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Andreas Kunzendorf
- Department of Biotechnology
and Enzyme Catalysis, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Strasse 4, 17487 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Uwe T. Bornscheuer
- Department of Biotechnology
and Enzyme Catalysis, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Strasse 4, 17487 Greifswald, Germany
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46
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McLean R, Schwander T, Diehl C, Cortina NS, Paczia N, Zarzycki J, Erb TJ. Exploring alternative pathways for the in vitro establishment of the HOPAC cycle for synthetic CO 2 fixation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh4299. [PMID: 37315145 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh4299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Nature has evolved eight different pathways for the capture and conversion of CO2, including the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle of photosynthesis. Yet, these pathways underlie constrains and only represent a fraction of the thousands of theoretically possible solutions. To overcome the limitations of natural evolution, we introduce the HydrOxyPropionyl-CoA/Acrylyl-CoA (HOPAC) cycle, a new-to-nature CO2-fixation pathway that was designed through metabolic retrosynthesis around the reductive carboxylation of acrylyl-CoA, a highly efficient principle of CO2 fixation. We realized the HOPAC cycle in a step-wise fashion and used rational engineering approaches and machine learning-guided workflows to further optimize its output by more than one order of magnitude. Version 4.0 of the HOPAC cycle encompasses 11 enzymes from six different organisms, converting ~3.0 mM CO2 into glycolate within 2 hours. Our work moves the hypothetical HOPAC cycle from a theoretical design into an established in vitro system that forms the basis for different potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard McLean
- Department of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Schwander
- Department of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Diehl
- Department of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Niña Socorro Cortina
- Department of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Paczia
- Core Facility for Metabolomics and Small Molecule Mass Spectrometry, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jan Zarzycki
- Department of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Tobias J Erb
- Department of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
- SYNMIKRO Center of Synthetic Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
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47
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Ashoor S, Khang TU, Lee YH, Hyung JS, Choi SY, Lim SE, Lee J, Park SJ, Na JG. Bioupgrading of the aqueous phase of pyrolysis oil from lignocellulosic biomass: a platform for renewable chemicals and fuels from the whole fraction of biomass. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2023; 10:34. [PMID: 38647900 PMCID: PMC10992256 DOI: 10.1186/s40643-023-00654-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Pyrolysis, a thermal decomposition without oxygen, is a promising technology for transportable liquids from whole fractions of lignocellulosic biomass. However, due to the hydrophilic products of pyrolysis, the liquid oils have undesirable physicochemical characteristics, thus requiring an additional upgrading process. Biological upgrading methods could address the drawbacks of pyrolysis by utilizing various hydrophilic compounds as carbon sources under mild conditions with low carbon footprints. Versatile chemicals, such as lipids, ethanol, and organic acids, could be produced through microbial assimilation of anhydrous sugars, organic acids, aldehydes, and phenolics in the hydrophilic fractions. The presence of various toxic compounds and the complex composition of the aqueous phase are the main challenges. In this review, the potential of bioconversion routes for upgrading the aqueous phase of pyrolysis oil is investigated with critical challenges and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selim Ashoor
- Department of Agricultural Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Hadayek Shoubra, Cairo, 11241, Egypt
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Uk Khang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hoon Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Sung Hyung
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Young Choi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Eun Lim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinwon Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Si Jae Park
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Geol Na
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea.
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Dong H, Yang X, Shi J, Xiao C, Zhang Y. Exploring the Feasibility of Cell-Free Synthesis as a Platform for Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Production: Opportunities and Challenges. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15102333. [PMID: 37242908 DOI: 10.3390/polym15102333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The extensive utilization of traditional petroleum-based plastics has resulted in significant damage to the natural environment and ecological systems, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have emerged as promising bioplastics that can compete with petroleum-based plastics. However, their production technology currently faces several challenges, primarily focused on high costs. Cell-free biotechnologies have shown significant potential for PHA production; however, despite recent progress, several challenges still need to be overcome. In this review, we focus on the status of cell-free PHA synthesis and compare it with microbial cell-based PHA synthesis in terms of advantages and drawbacks. Finally, we present prospects for the development of cell-free PHA synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaming Dong
- School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Xue Yang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Jingjing Shi
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin 300308, China
| | - Chunqiao Xiao
- School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Yanfei Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin 300308, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin 300308, China
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49
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Huang J, Xie X, Zheng Z, Ye L, Wang P, Xu L, Wu Y, Yan J, Yang M, Yan Y. De Novo Computational Design of a Lipase with Hydrolysis Activity towards Middle-Chained Fatty Acid Esters. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108581. [PMID: 37239928 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Innovations in biocatalysts provide great prospects for intolerant environments or novel reactions. Due to the limited catalytic capacity and the long-term and labor-intensive characteristics of mining enzymes with the desired functions, de novo enzyme design was developed to obtain industrial application candidates in a rapid and convenient way. Here, based on the catalytic mechanisms and the known structures of proteins, we proposed a computational protein design strategy combining de novo enzyme design and laboratory-directed evolution. Starting with the theozyme constructed using a quantum-mechanical approach, the theoretical enzyme-skeleton combinations were assembled and optimized via the Rosetta "inside-out" protocol. A small number of designed sequences were experimentally screened using SDS-PAGE, mass spectrometry and a qualitative activity assay in which the designed enzyme 1a8uD1 exhibited a measurable hydrolysis activity of 24.25 ± 0.57 U/g towards p-nitrophenyl octanoate. To improve the activity of the designed enzyme, molecular dynamics simulations and the RosettaDesign application were utilized to further optimize the substrate binding mode and amino acid sequence, thus keeping the residues of theozyme intact. The redesigned lipase 1a8uD1-M8 displayed enhanced hydrolysis activity towards p-nitrophenyl octanoate-3.34 times higher than that of 1a8uD1. Meanwhile, the natural skeleton protein (PDB entry 1a8u) did not display any hydrolysis activity, confirming that the hydrolysis abilities of the designed 1a8uD1 and the redesigned 1a8uD1-M8 were devised from scratch. More importantly, the designed 1a8uD1-M8 was also able to hydrolyze the natural middle-chained substrate (glycerol trioctanoate), for which the activity was 27.67 ± 0.69 U/g. This study indicates that the strategy employed here has great potential to generate novel enzymes exhibiting the desired reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsha Huang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xiaoman Xie
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Zhen Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Luona Ye
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Pengbo Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Li Xu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Ying Wu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Jinyong Yan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Min Yang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yunjun Yan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
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50
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Bierbaumer S, Nattermann M, Schulz L, Zschoche R, Erb TJ, Winkler CK, Tinzl M, Glueck SM. Enzymatic Conversion of CO 2: From Natural to Artificial Utilization. Chem Rev 2023; 123:5702-5754. [PMID: 36692850 PMCID: PMC10176493 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Enzymatic carbon dioxide fixation is one of the most important metabolic reactions as it allows the capture of inorganic carbon from the atmosphere and its conversion into organic biomass. However, due to the often unfavorable thermodynamics and the difficulties associated with the utilization of CO2, a gaseous substrate that is found in comparatively low concentrations in the atmosphere, such reactions remain challenging for biotechnological applications. Nature has tackled these problems by evolution of dedicated CO2-fixing enzymes, i.e., carboxylases, and embedding them in complex metabolic pathways. Biotechnology employs such carboxylating and decarboxylating enzymes for the carboxylation of aromatic and aliphatic substrates either by embedding them into more complex reaction cascades or by shifting the reaction equilibrium via reaction engineering. This review aims to provide an overview of natural CO2-fixing enzymes and their mechanistic similarities. We also discuss biocatalytic applications of carboxylases and decarboxylases for the synthesis of valuable products and provide a separate summary of strategies to improve the efficiency of such processes. We briefly summarize natural CO2 fixation pathways, provide a roadmap for the design and implementation of artificial carbon fixation pathways, and highlight examples of biocatalytic cascades involving carboxylases. Additionally, we suggest that biochemical utilization of reduced CO2 derivates, such as formate or methanol, represents a suitable alternative to direct use of CO2 and provide several examples. Our discussion closes with a techno-economic perspective on enzymatic CO2 fixation and its potential to reduce CO2 emissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bierbaumer
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Graz, NAWI Graz, Heinrichstraße 28, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Maren Nattermann
- Department
of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Straße 10, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Luca Schulz
- Department
of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Straße 10, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Tobias J. Erb
- Department
of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Straße 10, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Christoph K. Winkler
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Graz, NAWI Graz, Heinrichstraße 28, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Matthias Tinzl
- Department
of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Straße 10, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Silvia M. Glueck
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Graz, NAWI Graz, Heinrichstraße 28, 8010 Graz, Austria
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