Page 59 - phytochemistry I - PharmD Clinical
P. 59
Terpenes can be built up by the union of two or more isoprene
(isopentene) units (Branched chain, 5 carbon atoms containing 2 double
bonds).
- Isoprene units arise from acetate via mevalonic acid pathway.
Isoprene unit
How is the isoprenoid compounds are synthesized inside the plant?
The biogenesis of terpens occurs via Terpenoid Mevalonic acid pathway
(through formation of isoprene units). Then oxygenation of the terpene
hydrocarbons would naturally account for the presence of alcohols,
aldehydes, ketones, esters and oxides.
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