articleNature CommunicationsJan 31, 2026GOLD OA

Discover the maze-like network for glabridin biosynthesis

Ministry of Education · Tsinghua University · +1 more institution

PubMed
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Abstract

Flavonoid diversity arises from modifications of a few precursors by tailored enzymes, yet the complexity of their evolved metabolic networks complicates pathway elucidation and design. Here, by combining chromosome-scale genome assembly with large-scale transcriptome analysis, we identify and reconstruct the glabridin biosynthetic pathway in yeast, enabling de novo production of this antioxidant flavonoid from Glycyrrhiza glabra L. By analyzing 183 licorice transcriptomes, we discover four classes of enzymes capable of modify isoflavan scaffolds. Among 13 theoretical routes, we validate six functional pathways, revealing a ladder-like, multi-route tailoring network. This network features a multi-step…

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5
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FWCI
94.93
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100%
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64
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Authors

13

Topics & keywords

Keywords
  • Interconnectivity
  • Metabolic pathway
  • Transcriptome
  • Flavonoid biosynthesis
  • Metabolic engineering
  • Yeast
  • Flavonoid
  • Enzyme
UN Sustainable Development Goals
  • Responsible consumption and production
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