S151: Biosynthesis of Hydrocarbons

Several mechanisms have been identified by which microorganisms biosynthesize hydrocarbons. The reactions are of interest for a better fundamental understanding of microbial physiology. Currently, there is a perceived utility of hydrocarbon biosynthetic reactions for the production of useful chemicals and fuels. Microbial hydrocarbons derive from fatty acid precursors. In one type of reaction, fatty acyl groups are condensed via a head-to-head condensation mechanism catalyzed by OleA. Purified OleA has been shown to catalyze a non-decarboxylative Claisen condensation reaction with two fatty acyl-Coenzyme A precursors. The product of the condensation reaction is a beta-keto acid. The beta-keto acid product can be further processed to an olefinic hydrocarbon or undergo spontaneous decarboxylation to produce a ketone. The utility of these products for novel biosynthesis is being investigated.

Frias, J.A., J.E. Richman, J.S. Erickson and L.P. Wackett (2011) Purification and characterization of OleA from Xanthomonas campestris and demonstration of a non-decarboxylative Claisen condensation reaction. J. Biol. Chem. 286:10930-10938.