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Biosynthetic Pathways to Nonproteinogenic α-Amino Acids
Jason B Hedges1, Katherine S Ryan1
1Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z1, Canada.
Chemical Reviews
|December 24, 2019
Summary
Natural nonproteinogenic amino acids, far more numerous than proteinogenic ones, are synthesized via specialized metabolic pathways. This review highlights recent discoveries in their biosynthetic routes.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Metabolic Engineering
- Natural Product Synthesis
Background:
- Over 22 proteinogenic amino acids are known, but natural nonproteinogenic amino acids are vastly more numerous.
- These unique amino acids are synthesized through specialized metabolic pathways.
- They serve as crucial building blocks for complex natural products.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recently discovered biosynthetic routes for freestanding nonproteinogenic alpha-amino acids.
- To focus on advancements reported between 2013 and mid-2019.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications.
- Analysis of biosynthetic pathways and transformations.
- Focus on stereospecific functionalization and isomerizations.
Main Results:
- Identification of diverse biosynthetic transformations including C-H bond functionalization.
- Cataloging of newly discovered pathways for nonproteinogenic amino acid synthesis.
- Emphasis on the structural diversity generated.
Conclusions:
- Specialized metabolic pathways are key to generating diverse nonproteinogenic amino acids.
- Recent research has significantly advanced our understanding of these biosynthetic routes.
- Nonproteinogenic amino acids are vital components in the synthesis of natural products.
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