Biosensors for coenzyme A thioester derivatives: Development, optimization and applications

Coenzyme A thioester derivatives, particularly acetyl-CoA, malonyl-CoA and fatty acyl-CoA, are essential central metabolites in microorganisms. These compounds play pivotal roles in numerous metabolic pathways and serve as key precursors in the biosynthesis of various high-value compounds, including fatty acids, polyketides, and flavonoids. The spatiotemporal distribution of CoA thioester derivatives is variable and tightly regulated, making real-time monitoring worthwhile. Biosensors have emerged as valuable tools for rapid and immediate detection because of their respond to changes of inducers. This has facilitated the development of efficient metabolic engineering strategies, including dynamic regulation and high-throughput screening. In this context, the review offers a comprehensive overview of the current progress, optimization, applications and limitations of biosensors for acetyl-CoA, malonyl-CoA, fatty acyl-CoA and other CoA thioester derivatives. Based on these limitations, it also outlines prospects for further development and discusses potential biosensor elements for CoA thioester derivatives.