Metabolic reprogramming and computation-aided protein engineering for high-level de novo biosynthesis for 2-phenylethanol in <i>Pichia pastoris</i>.

ABSTRACT: 2-Phenylethanol (2-PE), an aromatic compound with a characteristic rose fragrance, is extensively used in the food and cosmetic industries as a flavoring and fragrance agent. Due to limitations in obtaining 2-PE from natural plant sources, microbial cell factories offer a promising alternative for sustainable biosynthesis. In this study, Pichia pastoris was engineered to efficiently synthesize 2-PE. Using computer-assisted predictions of interactions between the key phenylpyruvate decarboxylase KDC2 and its substrates or products, an optimal enzyme variant was rationally designed to boost 2-PE production. Additionally, the shikimic acid pathway was enhanced, and a dynamic regulation promoter was employed to reduce competition from alternative pathways. These strategies significantly

SUBMITTER: Sun L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12159296 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature