4-Coumaric Acid: Coenzyme A Ligase (4-coumarate: CoA ligase, 4CL) is one of the key enzymes in
lignin biosynthesis. It mainly catalyzes cinnamic acid and its hydroxy or methoxy derivatives to produce
corresponding coenzyme A esters. These intermediates then enter the pathway of synthesis of
phenylpropanoid derivatives. This enzyme mainly exists in higher plants, yeasts and fungi. The study of
this enzyme can explore the metabolic mechanism of lignin deposition during the development of various
biological cells, and provide the basis for reducing the content of fruit stone cells and improving their
quality.
4-coumaric acid and CoA are catalyzed by 4CL to form 4-coumaric acid CoA, which has a characteristic
absorption peak at 333 nm. The formation rate of 4-coumaric acid CoA can reflect 4CL activity.
Reagents and Equipment Required but Not Provided
Spectrophotometer, low temperature centrifuge, water bath, 1 mL quartz cuvette, adjustable pipette,
mortar/homogenizer, EP tube, ice and distilled water.
