Non-Ribosomal Peptide Synthetases of Fungi

Abstract

Non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs) are large enzymes which catalyze the assembly of a vast number of complex peptides which often possess interesting properties. The physiological role of non-ribosomally produced peptides is discussed and the organization of NRPSs in fungi is described. Fungal and bacterial NRPSs share the domain architecture typical for these enzymes, but differ in some aspects, which are summarized. A specific focus is put on non-ribosomal peptide synthesis in basidiomycetes, as very scarce information is available about NRPSs in these fungi to date. This chapter gives examples for NRPS gene clusters and cluster evolution. Finally, an outlook is presented on approaches to identify new NRPSs and on combinatorial biosynthesis of new peptides.