By uncovering the role of GAME15, this study marks a significant milestone in plant biochemistry, paving the way for innovative approaches to utilize natural products in sustainable and commercial applications.
SciFocus/Dec 27, 2024 — In a groundbreaking study, researchers have identified a cellulose synthase–like protein, GAME15, as a pivotal player in the biosynthesis of steroidal glycoalkaloids (SGAs) in Solanum species like tomatoes and potatoes. This discovery provides insights into plant chemical defense mechanisms and opens new doors for engineering these protective compounds in other plant systems.
“The identification of GAME15 as a dual-function protein, capable of glucuronidation and enzyme scaffolding, represents a significant advancement in understanding plant metabolism.”
Key Highlights
- Dual Role of GAME15
GAME15 functions as both:- A cholesterol glucuronosyltransferase, catalyzing the conversion of cholesterol to cholesterol glucuronide.
- A scaffolding protein, organizing enzyme complexes to streamline the biosynthesis of SGAs.
- Biosynthetic Coordination
- GAME15 enables efficient metabolite flow and prevents the accumulation of toxic intermediates, ensuring the balance between SGA production and plant vitality.
- Experimental Insights
- Localization: GAME15 is found in the endoplasmic reticulum and associated with SGA metabolic gene clusters.
- Functional Assays: Studies in Nicotiana benthamiana and yeast confirmed GAME15’s critical role in directing cholesterol metabolism.
- Gene Silencing: Disabling GAME15 in tomatoes and potatoes led to cholesterol buildup and reduced SGA levels, highlighting its indispensable role.
- Evolutionary and Industrial Implications
- GAME15 sheds light on the evolution of complex metabolic pathways in plants.
- The findings could lead to the engineering of SGAs in other plant systems for applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
- Collaborative Breakthrough
This work builds on research from two independent groups, led by Adam Jozwiak and Asaph Aharoni, providing a comprehensive understanding of GAME15’s functions.
Reference
- Jozwiak, A., Panda, S., Akiyama, R., et al. (2024). A cellulose synthase–like protein governs the biosynthesis of Solanum alkaloids. Science, 386(6728), DOI: 10.1126/science.adq5721
