Enantioselective
methylation is a challenging task in
organic chemistry,
yet often desirable in drug discovery and optimization. S-Adenosyl methionine (SAM)-dependent methyltransferases (MTases)
offer a selective alternative to chemical synthesis and an abundance
of potential scaffolds. The crystal structure of C3-indole MTase PsmD
from Streptomyces griseofuscus, involved
in the biosynthesis of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor physostigmine,
was determined via X-ray crystallography. The amino acid residues
essential for catalysis were identified by site-directed mutagenesis,
and a mechanism of action was proposed. Furthermore, a PsmD ortholog
was identified and characterized. The variant catalyzed enantioselective
C-methylation over a broad substrate scope while displaying increased
stability. Using this enzyme, preparative-scale enzymatic methylation
was performed in cell-free extracts in combination with an SAM recycling
system, eliminating the need for cofactor supplementation.
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