Akifumi Sugiyama

Molecular characterization of a cytochrome P450 involved in the skeletal diversification of tricyclic coumarins in Angelica keiskei.

This study identifies a cytochrome P450 enzyme in Angelica keiskei that determines the skeletal structure of tricyclic coumarins by preferentially forming dihydrofuranocoumarins over unsaturated furanocoumarins.

Biosynthesis of prenylated flavonoids by two membrane-bound prenyltransferases in glandular trichomes of Macaranga tanarius.

This study identifies two prenyltransferase genes in Macaranga tanarius that catalyze the biosynthesis of diverse prenylated flavonoids in glandular trichomes.

A membrane-bound aromatic O-prenyltransferase catalyzes the last reaction step in citrus auraptene biosynthesis

This study identifies CpPT4, a membrane-bound aromatic O-prenyltransferase involved in auraptene biosynthesis in citrus, and shows its functional and evolutionary significance.

CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing reveals the involvement of a polyphenol oxidase in the shikonin-specific biosynthesis in Lithospermum erythrorhizon

The paper uses CRISPR/Cas9 to edit the LePPO1 gene in Lithospermum erythrorhizon, showing it is involved in shikonin biosynthesis and explains the role of copper in the process.

Horizontal acquisition of nicotine catabolism gene cluster drives the assembly of tobacco root microbiota community

This study shows that horizontal gene transfer of nicotine catabolism genes in Arthrobacter enables its colonization of tobacco roots, shaping the root microbiota community.

From model to field: predictive design of microbial communities for resilient crop performance

The paper develops a predictive framework to design synthetic microbial communities for crop resilience, showing improved plant growth and heat tolerance in field and lab tests.

Molecular basis behind the isoprene emission diversity in Fagaceae

The paper identifies the IspS gene responsible for isoprene emission in Quercus serrata and shows functional differences in related genes from non-emitting species.

Parallel evolution of UbiA superfamily proteins into aromatic O-prenyltransferases in plants

The paper identifies two aromatic O-prenyltransferase genes from distant plant species, showing parallel evolution of UbiA superfamily proteins into O-PTs.