Interrogation of an Enzyme Library Reveals the Catalytic Plasticity of Naturally Evolved [4+2] Cyclases

Abstract

AbstractStereoselective carbon‐carbon bond forming reactions are quintessential transformations in organic synthesis. One example is the Diels‐Alder reaction, a [4+2] cycloaddition between a conjugated diene and a dienophile to form cyclohexenes. The development of biocatalysts for this reaction is paramount for unlocking sustainable routes to a plethora of important molecules. To obtain a comprehensive understanding of naturally evolved [4+2] cyclases, and to identify hitherto uncharacterised biocatalysts for this reaction, we constructed a library comprising forty‐five enzymes with reported or predicted [4+2] cycloaddition activity. Thirty‐one library members were successfully produced in recombinant form. In vitro assays employing a synthetic substrate incorporating a diene and a dienophile revealed broad‐ranging cycloaddition activity amongst these polypeptides. The hypothetical protein Cyc15 was found to catalyse an intramolecular cycloaddition to generate a novel spirotetronate. The crystal structure of this enzyme, along with docking studies, establishes the basis for stereoselectivity in Cyc15, as compared to other spirotetronate cyclases.