Radical SAM enzymes is an attractive target that achieves novel chemical transformations by generating highly reactive radical species during the reaction. However, characterization and mechanistic study of radical SAM enzymes is not as easy as for general enzymes because they utilize an oxygen-sensitive metallocluster, which has been a challenge for researchers. Our research group has established a method for preparing active radical SAM enzymes in an oxygen-free experimental environment, which allows us to perform precise functional analysis. We are working towards elucidating the unexplored radical chemistry that enables the structural diversification of natural products. Our interest lies in how the enzymes control highly reactive radical species.  Understanding radical SAM enzymes will lead to the design and application of radical reactions for creating new functional molecules.

Keywords

Radical reaction, Radical SAM enzyme

Skills learned

Mechanistic study of enzyme, Handling of anaerobic enzyme

Publications

Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2020, 59, 237-241.

Biochemistry 2021, 60, 2865-2874. 

Biochemistry 2018, 57, 4963-4966.