Biosynthesis of Annullatin D in Implies Oxidative Lactonization between Two Hydroxyl Groups Catalyzed by a BBE-like Enzyme.

Annullatins from are alkylated aromatic polyketides including annullatin D with a fused dihydrobenzofuran lactone ring system. Here, we report the identification of a silent biosynthetic gene cluster for annullatins from by heterologous expression in , gene deletion, and feeding experiments as well as by biochemical characterization. The polyketide core structure is consecutively modified by hydroxylation and prenylation.

Dual function of a secreted fungalysin metalloprotease in Ustilago maydis.

Fungalysins from several phytopathogenic fungi have been shown to be involved in cleavage of plant chitinases. While fungal chitinases are responsible for cell wall remodeling during growth and morphogenesis, plant chitinases are important components of immunity. This study describes a dual function of the Ustilago maydis fungalysin UmFly1 in modulation of both plant and fungal chitinases.