Overview
- Researchers in Jena identified three previously unknown intermediates, including malonyl-corynantheol and cinchonium.
- The team assigned key steps to specific enzymes, naming an oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase, a cytochrome P450, and an unexpected transferase that catalyzes a cyclization.
- Isotope tracing with labeled precursors, comparative gene and protein data, and targeted gene silencing established the sequence of reactions.
- Using the enzymes, the lab produced established Cinchona alkaloids and generated novel derivatives with potential medical value.
- The authors say the findings enable synthetic-biology routes that could reduce reliance on bark extraction, a market Phys.org reports is worth roughly $2 billion annually.