Convergent pathways to biosynthesis of the versatile cofactor F420. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bashiri, Ghader; Baker, Edward N
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in structural biology. Volume 65(2020)
• Page Start: 9
• Page End: 16
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Molecular biology -- Periodicals; 570
• DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2020.05.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-440X

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Cofactor F420 acts as a carrier in hydride transfer reactions. F420 is widely distributed across archaea and bacteria. Naturally occurring F420 derivatives have recently been discovered. F420 biosynthesis displays intriguing complexity and diversity in microorganisms. Abstract : Cofactor F420 is historically known as the methanogenic redox cofactor, having a key role in the central metabolism of methanogens, and archaea in general. Over the past decade, however, it has become evident this cofactor is more widely distributed across archaeal and bacterial taxa, suggesting a broader role for F420 in various metabolic and ecological capacities. In this article, we focus on the recent findings that have led to a deeper understanding of F420 biosynthetic enzymes and metabolites across microorganisms.