Abstract
Methyltransferases (MTs) constitute a large group of enzymes that
catalyze the transfer of a methyl moiety most frequently from
S-adenosyl-L-methionine to their substrates. It plays an essential role
in regulation of genes expression and synthesis of many natural
compounds. Owing to its broad substrate spectrum, MTs make important
contributions to diversify the spectrum of products through methylation
modifications. Recently, employment of MTs for biosynthesis of natural
products has made great progress but have not been detailed and
informative viewed so far. In this article, we summary the recent
advances in application of MTs for microbial synthesis of various
natural products including phenylpropane compounds, fragrances, hormones
and antibiotics. We put emphasis on the applied metabolic engineering
strategies for efficient production of those chemicals and for expanding
the diversity of the products. Then, we present the current challenges
and future perspectives in utilization of MTs for efficient production
of more diverse natural products in microorganisms.