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Published on: January 26, 2018
Functions and mechanisms of enzymes assembling lignans and norlignans
1Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan; Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
Abstract:
Lignans and norlignans are distributed throughout the plant kingdom and exhibit diverse chemical structures and biological properties that offer potential for therapeutic use. Originating from the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway, their characteristic carbon architectures are formed through unique enzyme catalysis, featuring regio- and stereoselective C-C bond forming processes. Despite extensive research on these plant natural products, their biosynthetic pathways, and enzyme mechanisms remain enigmatic. This review highlights recent advancements in elucidating the functions and mechanisms of the biosynthetic enzymes responsible for constructing the distinct carbon frameworks of lignans and norlignans.
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