Biosynthesis of geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol in the prokaryotes—A review

Abstract:

Abstract:The occurrence of off-flavor problems caused by prokaryotes cyanobacteria and actinomycetes is a worldwidewater and food quality issue． Based on literatures on two earthy-muddy-smelling metabolites，(i.e.,geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol (2-MIB))，we reviewed their chemical characteristics，biosynthetic pathways，genes and enzymes that are involved in biosynthesis． Then we discussed current research questions related to off-flavor and future directions．Finally，we addressed the significance of probable key regulatory mechanism for the production and release of geosmin and 2-MIB，which could provide more scientific strategies to better control off-flavors outbreaks in drinking and aquaculture water．

Key words:Keywords: geosmin，2-methylisoborneol，earthy and musty，off-flavor，biosynthesis