Plant SCPL acyltransferases: multiplicity of enzymes with various functions in secondary metabolism

Enzymes of acyltransferase families transfer an acyl moiety from energy-rich donor molecules to various acceptors, contributing to the vast diversification of plant secondary metabolites. All plant acyltransferases are divided into two families: BAHD and serine carboxypeptidase-like (SCPL) acyltransferases. Since the characterization of isobutyryltransferase from Lycopersicon pennellii, the first known SCPL acyltransferase, a number of enzymes from this family have been identified in various plants. These enzymes are potential targets for studying the evolution of plant enzymes, as they are believed to be undergoing evolutionary changes. The aim of this work is to summarize our current knowledge of SCPL acyltransferases.