The cell and developmental biology of alkaloid biosynthesis

Plants produce unique natural products as a result of gene mutation and sub sequent adaptation of metabolic pathways to create new secondary metabolite s. However, their biosynthesis and accumulation remains remarkably under th e control of the biotic and abiotic environments. Alkaloid biosynthesis, wh ich requires the adaptation of cellular activities to perform specialized m etabolism without compromising general homeostasis, is accomplished by rest ricting product biosynthesis and accumulation to particular cells and to de fined times of plant development. The cell and developmental biology of alk aloid biosynthesis, which is remarkably complex, evolved in part by recruit ing pre-existing enzymes to perform new functions.