Gene

Ecology

Heterologous expression

Biology

Abiotic component

Gene cluster

Thallus

Botany

Genetics

Biosynthesis

Microbiology

Polyketide

Lichen

Heterologous

Recombinant DNA

Ecosystem

mBio

Lichens play significant roles in ecosystem function and comprise about 20% of all known fungi. Polyketide-derived natural products accumulate in the cortical and medullary layers of lichen thalli, some of which play key roles in protection from biotic and abiotic stresses (e.g., herbivore attacks and UV irradiation).

Linking a Gene Cluster to Atranorin, a Major Cortical Substance of Lichens, through Genetic Dereplication and Heterologous Expression