The α-aminoadipate pathway for lysine biosynthesis in fungi

Abstract

This review provides a description of the biochemistry and enzymology of the α-aminoadipate pathway for lysine biosynthesis in fungi. The α-aminoadipate pathway is unique to fungi and is thus a potential target for the rational design of antifungal drugs. The present state of knowledge of the mechanisms of the seven enzymes in the pathway is presented, as well as detailed information with respect to structures and mechanisms of homocitrate synthase, saccharopine reductase, and saccharopine dehydrogenase. © Copyright 2006 by Humana Press Inc. All rights of any nature whatsoever reserved.