Convergent Evolution of Ergothioneine Biosynthesis in Cyanobacteria. (2nd October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Liao, Cangsong; Seebeck, Florian P.
• Is Part Of: Chembiochem. Volume 18:Number 21(2017)
• Page Start: 2115
• Page End: 2118
• Publication Date: 2017-10-02
• Subjects: biosynthesis -- convergent evolution -- cyanobacteria -- enzymes -- sulfur; Biochemistry -- Periodicals; Molecular biology -- Periodicals; Pharmaceutical chemistry -- Periodicals; 572
• DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201700354
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1439-4227

Abstract

Abstract: Biosynthesis of N ‐α‐trimethyl‐2‐thiohistidine (ergothioneine) is a frequent trait in cyanobacteria. This sulfur compound may provide essential relief from oxidative stress related to oxygenic photosynthesis. The central steps in ergothioneine biosynthesis are catalyzed by a histidine methyltransferase and an iron‐dependent sulfoxide synthase. In this report, we present evidence that some cyanobacteria recruited and adapted a sulfoxide synthase from a different biosynthetic pathway to make ergothioneine. The discovery of a second origin of ergothioneine production underscores the physiological importance of this metabolite and highlights the evolutionary malleability of the thiohistidine biosynthetic machinery. Abstract : Two paths, one destination : Biosynthesis of N ‐α‐trimethyl‐2‐thiohistidine (ergothioneine) is a frequent trait in cyanobacteria. Evidence is presented of convergent evolution of ergothioneine biosynthesis. Ancient cyanobacteria may have adapted an ovothiol biosynthetic enzyme to produce ergothioneine as a response to changing environmental conditions.