Development of an artificial biosynthetic pathway for biosynthesis of cinnamyl cinnamate in engineered Escherichia coli

Cinnamyl cinnamate is a key flavoring and bioactive compound present in various plants. It is used in a variety of products including fragrances for decorative cosmetics, fine fragrances, shampoos, toilet soaps, and other toiletries, as well as in non-cosmetic items such as household cleaners and detergents. The production of cinnamyl cinnamate through plant extraction and chemical synthesis is inefficient and environmentally unfriendly. Therefore, a promising and attractive alternative is the production of cinnamyl cinnamate from renewable carbon sources using microbial cell factories. In this study, the construction of a de novo cinnamyl cinnamate pathway in Escherichia coli has been demonstrated for the first time. Subsequently, by increasing the supply of precursor substrates, we have further improved the biosynthesis of cinnamyl cinnamate. Finally, by knocking out the tyrA gene to block the competitive pathway, the cinnamyl cinnamate production was increased to 769 mg/L. It represents a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative for the synthesis of cinnamyl cinnamate.