# Heterologous biosynthesis of cotylenol and concise synthesis of fusicoccane diterpenoids

## TL;DR

Researchers developed a new method to produce fusicoccane diterpenoids using engineered fungi and chemical steps, enabling easier study of these compounds.

## Contribution

A novel biosynthetic and chemical strategy for concise fusicoccane diterpenoid synthesis is introduced.

## Key findings

- Cotylenol was successfully produced in an engineered Aspergillus oryzae strain.
- Three fusicoccane diterpenoids were synthesized in 4-5 chemical steps from brassicicene I.
- The method provides a foundation for preparing diterpenoids and their analogs for biological studies.

## Abstract

A novel strategy for the synthesis of fusicoccane diterpenoids is reported. By harnessing the biosynthetic pathways of brassicicenes and fusicoccins, cotylenol was produced in an engineered Aspergillus oryzae strain. We further achieved the concise synthesis of three fusicoccane diterpenoids, including alterbrassicicene E and brassicicenes A and R in 4 or 5 chemical steps from brassicicene I. This strategy lays the foundation for the preparation of fusicoccane diterpenoids and their analogues for biological studies.