Application of methyltransferases in microbial synthesis of natural products / 生物工程学报

Methyltransferases (MTs) constitute a large group of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of a methyl moiety, most frequently from S-adenosyl-L-methionine, to their substrates. It plays an essential role in regulation of gene expression and synthesis of many natural compounds. Owing to its broad substrate spectrum, MTs make important contributions to diversify the spectrum of products through methylation modifications. Recently, great progress has been made in application of MTs for the biosynthesis of various natural products including phenylpropane compounds, fragrances, hormones and antibiotics, which is summarized in this review. Moreover, we highlighted the strategies of using MTs for efficient production and for expanding the diversity of these methylated natural products, and discussed the current challenges and future prospects in this area.

Advances in metabolic engineering of heterotrophic microorganisms for CO₂ fixation: a review / 生物工程学报

Environmental protection and energy supply are our two major concerns. Greenhouse gases released from energy consumption have serious impact on the environment. CO₂ fixation can be used to convert CO₂ into fuels or chemicals. However, natural carbon-fixing organisms usually have some disadvantages such as slow growth and low carbon fixation efficiency. Enhancing or remodeling CO₂ fixation pathways in model microorganisms can realize CO₂ recycling, which can further increase fuel or chemical production and reduce greenhouse gas emission. This review describes in detail metabolic engineering of CO₂ fixation pathways to improve chemical production and sugar synthesis, elaborates the role of relevant metabolic pathways and key enzymes in CO₂ fixation, introduces the application of electro-biochemical synthesis system, shows the great potential of CO₂ fixation, and prospects the future research direction of CO₂ fixation.