A key step in the biosynthesis of jasmonates and lignans is the stereoselective cyclization of linear precursor molecules. We investigated the corresponding enzymatic scaffolds in the jasmonate and the lignan pathways of Arabidopsis thaliana, alleneoxide cyclase and dirigent protein, respectively. In each case β-barrels form a structural scaffold with an internal pocket designed to control the stereochemical reaction.
In both projects, students or collaborators from Wroclaw were essential for the progress.