Diversity-oriented biocatalytic production of complex polyamines

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Florian Seebeck
• Subject Area: Biological and Biomimetic Chemistry
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 510974120

Linear polyamines such as putrescine, cadaverine, spermidines and spermine consist of the C3, C4 and C5 units derived from methionine, ornithine and lysine. In addition to serving in many cellular functions, these simple polyamines are also precursors for the biosynthesis of polyamine alkaloids. With the goal to diversify this class of compounds we will develop enzyme-catalyzed reactions that produce polyamines and polyamine alkaloids with programmable methylation patterns. Addition of methyl groups to strategic positions on therapeutic compounds has been shown to have dramatic effects on activity and bioavailability (magic-methyl effect). This work will provide an avenue to explore the therapeutic potential of polyamines and polyamine alkaloids by methyl editing.

• DFG Programme: Research Units
• Subproject of: FOR 5596: Unfolding the potential of S-adenosylmethionine-dependent enzyme chemistry
• International Connection: Switzerland
• Partner Organisation: Schweizerischer Nationalfonds (SNF)