Recent advances in lycopene and germacrene a biosynthesis and their role as antineoplastic drugs

World J Microbiol Biotechnol. 2024 Jun 25;40(8):254. doi: 10.1007/s11274-024-04057-0.

Abstract

Sesquiterpenes and tetraterpenes are classes of plant-derived natural products with antineoplastic effects. While plant extraction of the sesquiterpene, germacrene A, and the tetraterpene, lycopene suffers supply chain deficits and poor yields, chemical synthesis has difficulties in separating stereoisomers. This review highlights cutting-edge developments in producing germacrene A and lycopene from microbial cell factories. We then summarize the antineoplastic properties of β-elemene (a thermal product from germacrene A), sesquiterpene lactones (metabolic products from germacrene A), and lycopene. We also elaborate on strategies to optimize microbial-based germacrene A and lycopene production.

Keywords: Cancer; Germacrene A; Lycopene; Sesquiterpene lactones; Terpenoids; Β-elemene.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents* / metabolism
  • Biosynthetic Pathways
  • Carotenoids / chemistry
  • Carotenoids / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Lycopene* / metabolism
  • Sesquiterpenes / metabolism
  • Sesquiterpenes, Germacrane* / metabolism

Substances

  • Lycopene
  • Sesquiterpenes, Germacrane
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Carotenoids
  • Sesquiterpenes