The sugar donor specificity of plant family 1 glycosyltransferases

Hani Gharabli, Ditte Hededam Welner*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReviewpeer-review

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Abstract

Plant family 1 glycosyltransferases (UGTs) represent a formidable tool to produce valuable natural and novel glycosides. Their regio- and stereo-specific one-step glycosylation mechanism along with their inherent wide acceptor scope are desirable traits in biotechnology. However, their donor scope and specificity are not well understood. Since different sugars have different properties in vivo and in vitro, the ability to easily glycodiversify target acceptors is desired, and this depends on our improved understanding of the donor binding site. In the aim to unlock the full potential of UGTs, studies have attempted to elucidate the structure-function relationship governing their donor specificity. These efforts have revealed a complex phenomenon, and general principles valid for multiple enzymes are elusive. Here, we review the studies of UGT donor specificity, and attempt to group the information into key concepts which can help shape future research. We zoom in on the family-defining PSPG motif, on two loop residues reported to interact with the C6 position of the sugar, and on the role of active site arginines in donor specificity. We continue to discuss attempts to alter and expand the donor specificity by enzyme engineering, and finally discuss future research directions.

Original languageEnglish
Article number1396268
JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology
Volume12
ISSN2296-4185
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024

Keywords

  • Donor specificity
  • Enzyme engineering
  • Glycodiversification
  • Glycosyltransferase
  • Structure-function

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