Melatonin biosynthesis pathways in nature and its production in engineered microorganisms

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Synthetic Biology

Background:

• Melatonin, a biogenic amine, functions as a signaling molecule and antioxidant in various organisms.
• Microbial melatonin synthesis pathways resemble animal pathways but differ from plant pathways.
• Microbial fermentation is an emerging method for melatonin production, surpassing traditional chemical synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in melatonin synthesis and pathway optimization.
• To highlight the potential of microbial fermentation for melatonin production.
• To discuss strategies for enhancing microbial melatonin biosynthesis.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on melatonin biosynthesis pathways in microorganisms.
• Analysis of strategies for optimizing microbial melatonin production, including precursor supply and enzyme engineering.
• Exploration of genetic modification techniques like site-directed mutation and directed evolution.

Main Results:

• Microbial synthesis pathways are distinct from plant pathways, offering unique production opportunities.
• Key enzymes in melatonin synthesis exhibit low specificity and catalytic efficiency.
• Strategies such as site-directed mutation, directed evolution, and cofactor synthesis enhancement can improve enzyme activity and metabolic flow.

Conclusions:

• Microbial modification holds significant promise for improving melatonin biosynthesis.
• Enhancing enzyme activity and metabolic flux are crucial for boosting microbial melatonin production.
• This review provides a valuable reference for future research in microbial melatonin engineering.