This section features a genetic construct containing the vanillin terpene synthase genes, which are driven by the pDawn promoter. The pDawn promoter is sensitive to blue light, allowing for precise, light-controlled expression of the target genes. When exposed to blue light, the system activates the production of key enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of vanillin.
The construct includes several important components: - gltA serves as a key indicator of the system’s yield, helping to measure the efficiency of the biosynthetic process. - fcs (feruloyl-CoA synthetase) is responsible for catalyzing the conversion of ferulic acid into feruloyl-CoA, a crucial intermediate in the vanillin production pathway. - ech (enoyl-CoA hydratase) further converts feruloyl-CoA into vanillin, the final product.
By incorporating these genes under the control of the light-sensitive pDawn promoter, the system can precisely regulate vanillin production through the application of blue light.