2015/09/22 by Sarah E. O’Connor · 1 citation
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Medicine · #Microbial Metabolic Engineering and Bioproduction #Enzyme Catalysis and Immobilization #Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis
paper · pdf · doi:10.1146/annurev-genet-120213-092053
openalex publication_date 2015/09/22 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/22
Secondary (specialized) metabolites, produced by bacteria, fungi, plants, and other organisms, exhibit enormous structural variation, and consequently display a wide range of biological activities. Secondary metabolism improves and modulates the phenotype of the host producer. Furthermore, these biological activities have resulted in the use of secondary metabolites in a variety of industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Metabolic engineering presents a powerful strategy to improve access to these valuable molecules. A critical overview of engineering approaches in secondary metabolism is presented, both in heterologous and native hosts. The recognition of the increasing role of compartmentalization in metabolic engineering is highlighted. Engineering approaches to modify the structure of key secondary metabolite classes are also critically evaluated.