Novel types of RiPP-modifying enzymes

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Natural Product Chemistry

Background:

• Ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are a diverse class of natural products.
• RiPPs are characterized by non-canonical amino acids introduced by maturation enzymes.
• Underexplored environments like the microbiome and oceans are promising sources for novel RiPP enzymology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent discoveries in RiPP enzymology.
• To highlight novel biochemical modifications and enzymes in RiPP biosynthesis.
• To explore potential novel applications of RiPPs and their enzymes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research in RiPP biosynthesis and enzymology.
• Analysis of novel RiPP structures and their corresponding maturation enzymes.
• Identification of new biochemical modifications and their enzymatic mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Identification of unusual amino acids (e.g., α- and β-amino acids) in RiPPs.
• Discovery of diverse modifications including peptide cleavages, lipidations, and macrocyclizations.
• Characterization of promiscuous enzymes involved in RiPP maturation.

Conclusions:

• The field of RiPP enzymology is rapidly advancing with significant potential for discovering novel bioactive compounds.
• Exploring diverse ecological niches continues to yield new insights into RiPP biosynthesis and enzyme function.
• Recent advances pave the way for novel applications in biotechnology and medicine.