Boosting lignan-precursor synthesis in yeast cell factories through co-factor supply optimization

Through this commentary article, we highlight the outstanding work of the Zhou’s group which recently describes a distinct approach relying on the efficient recycling of enzyme co-factors in yeast to fulfill the synthesis of caffeic acid (CaA) and ferulic acid (FA), two precursors of podophyllotoxin. We discuss how the cofactor recycling approach will undoubtedly pave the way for future high titer production of valuable natural products in yeast.