The isoprenoid pathway and transcriptional response to its inhibitors in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae

FEMS Yeast Res. 2010 Feb;10(1):14-27. doi: 10.1111/j.1567-1364.2009.00560.x. Epub 2009 Aug 5.

Abstract

This review presents new insights into the regulation of the isoprenoid pathway in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, in particular the short-term transcriptional response to two inhibitors, lovastatin and zaragozic acid (ZA). Whereas lovastatin blocks whole isoprenoid pathway, ZA only blocks the sterol branch. Consequently, their effects on the cellular level of farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) are different. Lovastatin decreases the FPP level, whereas ZA, by inhibiting the main FPP-consuming enzyme, increases FPP availability in the cell. We discuss the role of genes whose expression is affected by both inhibitors and consider possible association of these genes with the regulation of the isoprenoid pathway.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biosynthetic Pathways*
  • Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic / pharmacology
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal*
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Lovastatin / pharmacology
  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae / drug effects*
  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae / physiology*
  • Terpenes / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Terpenes / metabolism*

Substances

  • Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Terpenes
  • Lovastatin