Functional Verification of Transcription Factor comp54181c0 in Monascus purpureus

ABSTRACT Monacolin K is a valuable secondary metabolite produced after a period of fermentation by Monascus purpureus ; however, our current understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of its synthesis remains incomplete. This study conducted functional analysis on the key transcription factor, comp54181c0, that is involved in the synthesis of monacolin K in Monascus. Mutant strains with either knockout or overexpression of comp54181c0 were constructed using CRISPR/Cas9. A comparison between the knockout and overexpression strains revealed changes in fungal morphology and growth, with a significant increase in the production of Monascus pigments and monacolin K when comp54181c0 was absent. Real‐time fluorescence quantitative PCR analysis revealed that comp54181c0 significantly influenced the transcription of key genes related to monacolin K biosynthesis in Monascus. In conclusion, our study elucidates the crucial role of comp54181c0 in Monascus, enriches our understanding of fungal secondary metabolite development and regulation, and provides a foundation for the development and regulation of Monascus and monacolin K production.