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Biosynthesis in bacteria is a fundamental anabolic process that generates essential macromolecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and polysaccharides. These macromolecules are critical for cellular growth, replication, and function. The process is tightly regulated and energetically linked to catabolic pathways to ensure optimal resource utilization.Biosynthetic pathways begin with precursor metabolites such as pyruvate, acetyl-CoA, and glucose-6-phosphate derived from glycolysis,...
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The pathway for coenzyme M biosynthesis in bacteria.

Hsin-Hua Wu1,2, Michael D Pun2, Courtney E Wise3

  • 1Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
|August 29, 2022
PubMed
Summary

We discovered the complete bacterial pathway for coenzyme M (CoM) biosynthesis, revealing unique steps compared to archaea. This finding highlights convergent evolution in microbial metabolism.

Keywords:
CoM biosynthesisPLP-dependent cysteine desulfhydraseXanthobacter autotrophicusaspartase/fumarase superfamilysulfonate

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Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Evolutionary Biology

Background:

  • Coenzyme M (CoM) is a vital cofactor in methanogenesis and alkane oxidation.
  • While CoM biosynthesis is known in methanogenic archaea, a complete bacterial pathway remained elusive.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the complete CoM biosynthesis pathway in bacteria.
  • To compare bacterial and archaeal CoM pathways and identify evolutionary relationships.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of biochemical pathways.
  • Enzyme family characterization.

Main Results:

  • A novel five-step bacterial CoM biosynthesis pathway was identified, distinct from archaeal routes.
  • The pathway converts phosphoenolpyruvate to CoM via sulfite addition, phosphate elimination, decarboxylation, thiolation, and reduction.
  • Key enzymatic steps involve aspartase/fumarase and pyridoxal 5'-phosphate-dependent enzymes.

Conclusions:

  • Bacterial and archaeal CoM biosynthesis pathways evolved independently, demonstrating convergent evolution.
  • The identified bacterial pathway offers new insights into microbial metabolism and enzyme function.