A study of the bacterial community in the root system of the maytansine containing plant Putterlickia verrucosa

► The maytansinoid anticancer agents are products of microorganisms but, unexpectedly have also been found in higher plants. ► The DNA of a maytansine-containing plant does not contain some of the key genes for maytansine biosynthesis. ► A root associated bacterium very likely is responsible for the occurrence of maytansine in higher plants.