Advances in the prenyltransferases in microorganisms

Abstract:

Isoprenoids, a family of natural molecules with high chemical diversity are involved in the synthesis of secondary metabolites such as carotenoids and sterols in microorganisms, demonstrating a promising commercial prospect for industrial production. Prenyltransferase (PT), a key enzyme in the synthesis of isoprenoids, regulates the production of secondary metabolites. In this paper, we review the recent studies about the isolation and identification of prenyltransferases in microorganisms and introduce their structural features, chain length determination mechanisms, and complex evolution. Furthermore, we overview the applications of the regulation of enzyme gene expression and the current status of research on biosynthesis, aiming to provide ideas for in-depth study of the mechanism of action and applications of prenyltransferases.