Progress in heterologous biosynthesis of forskolin

Abstract

Forskolin, a class of labdane-type diterpenoid, has significantmedicinal value in anticancer, antiasthmatic, antihypertensive, and heart-strengthening treatments. The main source of natural forskolin is its extraction from the cork tissue of the root of Coleus forskohlii. However, conventionalmodes of extraction pose several challenges. In recent years, the construction ofmicrobial cell factories to produce medicinal natural products via synthetic biological methods has effectively solved the current problems and is a research hotspot in this field. This review summarizes the recent progress in the heterologous synthesis of forskolin via synthetic biological technology, analyzes the current challenges, and proposes corresponding strategies.