Bacillus enzyme unlocks greener, more effective nutraceuticals

Researchers at National Taiwan University have discovered a versatile enzyme from Bacillus subtilis that could make natural health compounds and medicines more effective and water-soluble. The study [1], published in ACS Catalysis, provides a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical methods for improving drug solubility.

The enzyme, called phenolic phosphate synthetase (BsPPS), can attach phosphate groups to over 30 different natural compounds, including flavonoids, stilbenoids, curcuminoids, and more. Phosphorylation increases water solubility, helping compounds be better absorbed in the body - a common challenge in developing nutraceuticals and prodrugs.

“This is the first time one enzyme has been shown to modify such a diverse range of phenolic compounds,” said Professor Nan-Wei Su, corresponding author of the study. “It suggests bacteria may naturally use similar strategies to process these molecules in their environment.”

BsPPS works through a two-step mechanism: it captures a pyrophosphate from ATP, temporarily holds it on a histidine site, and then transfers the phosphate to the target compound. Bioinformatic analysis indicates that BsPPS belongs to a largely unexplored family of enzymes widely distributed in bacterial genomes, hinting at a rich resource of biocatalysts yet to be discovered.

By offering a biocatalytic, precise, and environmentally friendly approach, BsPPS could simplify the creation of phosphate prodrugs and water-soluble nutraceuticals, supporting the next generation of health products with improved bioavailability.
“Using these enzymes, we can envision a greener, more selective way to produce medicines and supplements that work better in the body,” said Professor Su.

More information online

1.    Molecular Insights into a Promiscuous Dikinase Catalyzing Monophosphorylation of Structurally Diverse Natural Polyphenols published in ACS Catalysis