Abstract: The complex chemistry underlying the extensive transformations involved in terpene indole alkaloid synthesis makes identification of the biosynthetic genes challenging. The present invention relates to methods for producing a terpene indole alkaloid derivative, comprising the steps of: (1) providing a terpene indole alkaloid; and (2) providing a first enzyme termed “Precondylocarpine Acetate Synthase” (PAS) or a functional variant or homologue thereof; and/or a second enzyme termed “Dehydroprecondylocarpine Acetate Synthase” (DPAS) or a functional variant or homologue thereof, and optionally providing further identified enzymes involved in this pathway. The invention also encompasses related kits, enzymes, expression vectors, host cells and plants.

Abstract: An isolated nucleic acid encoding a nucleotide-binding and leucine-rich repeat (NLR) polypeptide including a zinc-finger BED domain, wherein expression of the NLR polypeptide in a plant confers or enhances resistance of the plant to a fungus.

Abstract: The complex chemistry underlying the extensive transformations involved in terpene indole alkaloid synthesis makes identification of the biosynthetic genes challenging. The present invention relates to methods for producing a terpene indole alkaloid derivative, comprising the steps of: (1) providing a terpene indole alkaloid; and (2) providing a first enzyme termed “Precondylocarpine Acetate Synthase” (PAS) or a functional variant or homologue thereof; and/or a second enzyme termed “Dehydroprecondylocarpine Acetate Synthase” (DPAS) or a functional variant or homologue thereof, and optionally providing further identified enzymes involved in this pathway. The invention also encompasses related kits, enzymes, expression vectors, host cells and plants.

Abstract: Novel polyketides and novel methods of efficiently producing both new and known polyketides, using recombinant technology, are disclosed. In particular, a novel host-vector system is described which is used to produce polyketide synthases which in turn catalyze the production of a variety of polyketides.

Abstract: Novel polyketides and novel methods of efficiently producing both new and known polyketides, using recombinant technology, are disclosed. In particular, a novel host-vector system is described which is used to produce polyketide synthases which in turn catalyze the production of a variety of polyketides.