The structure of the fabclavines-unique mixtures of nonribosomally derived peptide-polyketide hybrids connected to an unusual polyamino moiety-has been solved by detailed NMR and MS methods. These compounds have been identified in two different entomopathogenic Xenorhabdus strains, thereby leading also to the identification of the fabclavine biosynthesis gene cluster. Detailed analysis of these clusters and initial mutagenesis experiments allowed the prediction of a biosynthesis pathway in which the polyamino moiety is derived from an unusual type of fatty acid synthase that is normally involved in formation of polyunsaturated fatty acids. As fabclavines show broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, and other eukaryotic cells, they might act as "protection factors" against all kinds of food competitors during the complex life cycle of Xenorhabdus, its nematode host, and their insect prey.
Keywords: biosynthesis; broad spectrum bioactivity; natural products; polyamino compounds; polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis.
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