Expression plasmid for ethylmalonyl-CoA-decarboxylase (ECHDC1)

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Keywords
  • Expression plasmids
  • For use in bacteria and yeast
Technology Market

Cellular production processes using malonyl-CoA

In cellular metabolism, acetyl-CoA is the normal substrate for acetyl-CoA carboxylase. However, in approx. 10% of the reactions, acetyl-CoA carboxylase erroneously uses another substrate, butyryl-CoA, resulting in the formation of potentially toxic ethylmalonyl-CoA (figure).  There is a need for removing this metabolite from cellular processes.

The UCL/WELBIO invention

The laboratory of Prof. Emile Van Schaftingen, WELBIO investigator  at Université catholique de Louvain (UCL)– de Duve Institute, discovered and cloned ethylmalonyl-CoA decarboxylase (ECHDC1). 

This enzyme decarboxylates ethylmalonyl-CoA to butyryl-CoA (figure) and methylmalonyl-CoA to propionyl-CoA.

Ethylmalonyl-CoA decarboxylase (ECHDC1) is described in mammals, but was not identified in bacteria or yeast.

Application

This material can be used in bacteria or yeast to improve cellular processes using malonyl-CoA (e.g. engineered fatty acid or polyketide synthesis) by preventing the formation of ethyl- or methyl-branches.

Related publications

Linster CL et al. (2011) Ethylmalonyl-CoA decarboxylase, a new enzyme involved in metabolite proofreading. J Biol Chem 286: 42992-43003

Reprint available upon request.

Technology Status

Biomaterial for licensing

 

Interested to make use of this material ?

Please contact :

Fabienne FAUCHET

Tel. +32 (0)10 47 25 49