A cluster of genes for the biosynthesis of spinosyns, novel macrolide insect control agents produced by Saccharopolyspora spinosa.

Spinosyns A and D are the active ingredients in a family of insect control agents produced by fermentation of Saccharopolyspora spinosa. Spinosyns are 21-carbon tetracyclic lactones to which are attached two deoxysugars. Most of the genes involved in spinosyn biosynthesis are clustered in an 74 kb region of the S. spinosa genome. This region has been characterized by DNA sequence analysis and by targeted gene disruptions. The spinosyn biosynthetic gene cluster contains five large genes encoding a type I polyketide synthase, and 14 genes involved in modification of the macrolactone, or in the synthesis, modification and attachment of the deoxysugars. Four genes required for rhamnose biosynthesis (two of which are also required for forosamine biosynthesis) are not present in the cluster. A pathway for the biosynthesis of spinosyns is proposed.