Functional characterization of two acyltransferases from Populus trichocarpa capable of synthesizing benzyl benzoate and salicyl benzoate, potential intermediates in salicinoid phenolic glycoside biosynthesis

Two BAHD-type acyl transferases with hypothetical roles in salicinoid metabolism of poplar were functionally characterized. PtSABT catalyzes the synthesis of salicyl benzoate from benzoyl-CoA and salicyl alcohol, while PtBEBT catalyzes formation of benzyl benzoate from benzoyl-CoA and benzyl alcohol.