Biosynthesis of the Respiratory Toxin Bongkrekic Acid in the Pathogenic Bacterium Burkholderia gladioli

摘要: Bongkrekic acid (BA), an infamous respiratory toxin of the pathogenic bacterium Burkholderia gladioli, causes lethal intoxications when tempe bongkrek is produced with contaminated Rhizopus oligosporus cultures. Genome sequencing B. gladioli pathovar cocovenenans unveiled genetic basis for BA biosynthesis, and pointed to a homologous bon gene cluster in strain from infected rice plant. For functional genetics λ Red recombination was established. Dissection modular type I polyketide synthase (a trans-AT PKS) provided insights into complex assembly. Isoprenoid-like β-branching events six-electron oxidation methyl group carboxylic give rise unique branched tricarboxylic fatty acid. The role cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, BonL, proven by structural elucidation deoxybongkrekic mutant.