Identification\nand Characterization of a Fungal Monoterpene\nSynthase Responsible for the Biosynthesis of Geraniol

Geraniol, an acyclic monoterpenoid of substantial value\nextracted\nfrom the essential oils of various aromatic plants, holds significant\ncommercial and industrial importance in the realms of food, cosmetics,\nmedicine, and bioenergy. Geraniol synthase, which is responsible for\ngeraniol production, has been identified in only several plant species\nto date. Here, we present the first cloning and characterization of\na geraniol synthase (PgfTPS) from Penicillium griseofulvum. This enzyme demonstrates pronounced specificity in catalyzing the\nconversion of geranyl diphosphate into geraniol. Moreover, through\nprotein modeling and site-directed mutagenesis, we have identified\nkey active-site residues crucial for the catalytic function of PgfTPS.\nFinally, we utilized engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a host for PgfTPS expression to facilitate geraniol production.\nOur findings not only advance the development of efficient biocatalysts\nfor geraniol generation but also establish a fundamental basis for\nfurther exploration into fungal monoterpene biosynthesis.