Structural Basis and Enzymatic Mechanism of the Biosynthesis of C9- from C10-Monoterpenoid Indole Alkaloids

Cutting carbons: The threedimensional structure of polyneuridine aldehyde esterase PNAE gives insight into the enzymatic mechanism of the biosynthesis of C9 from C10monoterpenoid indole alkaloids see scheme. PNAE is a very substratespecific serine esterase. It harbors the catalytic triad S87D216H244, and is a new member of the αβfold hydrolase superfamily. Its novel function leads to the diversification of alkaloid structures.