Recent advances in the biosynthesis enzymes of steroidal natural products

Steroid compounds represent the second largest class of pharmaceuticals after antibiotics, with substantial demand in the medical market.Due to the complex molecular architecture and diverse stereochemistry of steroids, their biosynthesis, with its highly efficient and precise catalytic advantages, has emerged as a highly promising green synthesis approach.This article focuses on the study of key enzymes involved in the biosynthetic pathways of steroids, providing a comprehensive review of recent advances in the biosynthesis of major steroid molecules such as sterols, hormones, steroid saponins, cardiac glycosides, and bile acids.Emphasis is also placed on the catalytic roles of key enzymes, the mechanisms of enzymatic reactions, and strategies for enzyme optimization and engineering, along with achieved outcomes.This article offers prospects for future developments and technological breakthroughs in the sustainable microbial production of steroidal compounds.