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Questions and Answers
What is the characteristic feature of terpenoids?
What is the characteristic feature of terpenoids?
What is the basis of classification of terpenoids into several groups?
What is the basis of classification of terpenoids into several groups?
Which pathway is responsible for the synthesis of monoterpenes?
Which pathway is responsible for the synthesis of monoterpenes?
In which part of the plant cell are sesquiterpenes and triterpenes synthesized?
In which part of the plant cell are sesquiterpenes and triterpenes synthesized?
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What is the term used to describe terpenoids that are composed of 6 isoprene units?
What is the term used to describe terpenoids that are composed of 6 isoprene units?
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Study Notes
Definition and Classification
- Terpenoids are a class of organic compounds found in the oils of plants and give them their unique aromas and flavors.
- Also known as isoprenoids, they are composed of five-carbon isoprene units.
- Can be classified into several groups based on the number of isoprene units:
- Hemiterpenes (1 isoprene unit)
- Monoterpenes (2 isoprene units)
- Sesquiterpenes (3 isoprene units)
- Diterpenes (4 isoprene units)
- Sesterterpenes (5 isoprene units)
- Triterpenes (6 isoprene units)
- Tetraterpenes (8 isoprene units)
Biosynthesis
- Terpenoids are synthesized in plants through the mevalonate pathway or the methylerythritol phosphate pathway.
- The mevalonate pathway is localized in the cytosol and is responsible for the synthesis of sesquiterpenes and triterpenes.
- The methylerythritol phosphate pathway is localized in the plastids and is responsible for the synthesis of monoterpenes, diterpenes, and tetraterpenes.
Functions
- Terpenoids have various functions in plants, including:
- Defense against insects and diseases
- Attracting pollinators and other animals
- Protecting against environmental stresses
- Regulating plant growth and development
Examples
- Examples of terpenoids include:
- Limonene (found in citrus fruits)
- Pinene (found in pine trees)
- Menthol (found in mint)
- Camphor (found in camphor trees)
- Artemisinin (found in Artemisia annua, used to treat malaria)
Importance
- Terpenoids have various applications in:
- Pharmaceuticals (e.g. artemisinin, taxol)
- Food industry (e.g. flavorings, fragrances)
- Cosmetics (e.g. skin care products)
- Agriculture (e.g. pest control, plant growth regulation)
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Description
Learn about the structure, biosynthesis, functions, and importance of terpenoids, a class of organic compounds found in plants. Understand their classification, synthesis pathways, and applications in various industries. Test your knowledge with this quiz!
