Rapid cloning and expression of a fungal polyketide synthase gene involved in squalestatin biosynthesis

PCR primers designed to selectively amplify the unique C-methyltransferase domain of fungal polyketide synthases were used to selectively clone a polyketide synthase gene involved in the biosynthesis of the squalene synthase inhibitor squalestatin S1 1, heterologous expression of which led to the biosynthesis of the squalestatin side-chain.