Studies of α',β'-Epoxyketone Synthesis by Small-Molecule Flavins and Flavoenzymes

Epoxomicin is a highly potent natural proteasome inhibitor and the structural scaffold for the anticancer drug carfilzomib. The biosynthesis of its α',β'-epoxyketone warhead involves the flavoenzyme EpxF, but a molecular understanding of the key catalytic reaction cascade remained elusive. Here, we disclose detailed mechanistic insights by characterizing all intermediates in the sequential steps of decarboxylation, desaturation, and epoxidation with synthetic flavins and the flavin-dependent oxidoreductase EpxF. A high-resolution crystal structure of EpxF revealed the architecture of the active site and enabled the identification of key catalytic residues. Exploratory docking based on this structure served as a qualitative tool to guide mutagenesis and rationalize substrate recognition. NMR studies with a ¹³C-labeled epoxomicin precursor and structure-based EpxF variants further supported the proposed mechanism. Our integrated approach revealed similarities between synthetic and natural flavin catalysts and offers avenues for developing sustainable biomimetic reactions.