Work

Superoxide-mediated O2 activation drives radical cyclization in ergot alkaloid biosynthesis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Conventional heme enzymes utilize iron–oxygen intermediates to activate substrates and drive reactions. Recently, Chen et al. discovered a novel NADPH-independent superoxide mechanism of heme catalase EasC, which facilitates an O 2 -dependent radical oxidative cyclization reaction during ergot alkaloid biosynthesis. This enzyme coordinates superoxide-mediated catalysis by connecting spatially distinct NADPH-binding pocket and heme pocket via a slender tunnel, offering a novel perspective on the catalytic mechanisms of heme enzymes in nature.

Source: Engineering Microbiology

DOI: 10.1016/j.engmic.2025.100207

Authors: Yuanyuan Jiang, Zhong Li, Shengying Li

Institutions: Shandong University, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, University of Basel

Language: English

Topic: Metal-Catalyzed Oxygenation Mechanisms

Subfield: Inorganic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,960

Funder: National Natural Science Foundation of China