Molecular basis for the biosynthetic divergence of anthracyclines kosinostatin and chartreusin

Chemical Science 2026 Open access

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Authors: Ling Li Fang, Chen Jia, Xuan Zhou, Ying Jun, Huan Zi Guo, Xiuxiu Ma, Wei Bai, Lang Xiang, Jiapeng Zhu, Ren Xiang Tan, Yi Shuang Wang
DOI: 10.1039/d6sc00451b
Cited by: 0
References: 28

Abstract

directed evolution. The crystal structure of the ChaU mutant along with molecular dynamics simulations elucidated the structural determinants of its catalytic specificity, revealing the critical residue interactions and conformational dynamics. Furthermore, a ubiquitous distribution of KstA15-like proteins across microbial genomes has been demonstrated through gene mining. These findings deliver key insights into the evolutionary trajectory of functionally divergent enzymes and create a robust framework for rationally engineering biosynthetic pathways to produce novel anthracycline derivatives with potential pharmaceutical applications.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis Cyclization and Aryne Chemistry Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis

Publication details

Journal / source
Chemical Science
Volume
17
Issue
15
Pages
7766–7772
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN