Terpenes And Terpenoids

Terpenes belong to the diverse class of chemical constituents isolated from materials found in nature (plants, fungi, insects, marine organisms, plant pathogens, animals and endophytes). These metabolites have simple to complex structures derived from Isopentyl diphosphate (IPP), dimethyl allyl diphosphate (DMAPP), mevalonate and deoxyxylulose biosynthetic pathways. Terpenes play a very important role in human health and have significant biological activities (anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiallergic, skin permeation enhancer, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, anti-insecticidal). This book gives an overview and highlights recent research in the phytochemical and biological understanding of terpenes and terpenoid and explains the most essential functions of these kinds of secondary metabolites isolated from natural sources.

Terpenes belong to the diverse class of chemical constituents isolated from materials found in nature. They play a very important role in human health and have significant biological activities, including anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. This book provides an overview and highlights recent research in the phytochemical and biological understanding of terpenes and terpenoids, examining the most essential functions of these kinds of secondary metabolites.

What Are Terpenes? Terpenes (pronounced tur-peens), or terpenoids, are aromatic metabolites found in the oils of all plants. Terpenes are chemical oils produced by plants that create the unique flavor, scent and effect of herbs, fruit and flowers. When smelling a flower or herb, your nose actually registers the unique terpene profile of the plant. More than 30,000 unique terpenes have been identified in plants, animals, microbes, and fungi, which create aromas and flavors. Terpenes help carry out biological functions, can serve as vitamins, pheromones, and hormones as well as influence the immune system. When combined, terpenes produce complex profiles. For example, the herb lavender smells pleasant, tastes slightly sweet and floral, and has a relaxing effect. Terpenes are secreted along with cannabinoids in the flower’s sticky resin glands. They are responsible for cannabis’ smell, flavor and contribute to its overall sensory effect. Terpenes give the Blueberry cannabis strain its berry smell, Sour Diesel its skunky smell, and Lavender its floral aroma. Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant, and every strain tends toward a unique terpene type and composition. Terpenes play a key role in differentiating the effects of various cannabis strains. Terpenoid production evolved over time in plants, including cannabis, to attract pollinators and to act as defense compounds. Female cannabis plants produce glandular trichomes, which are glands that look like small hairs or growths that protrude from the flowers and leaves. Trichomes house crucial compounds, including cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), flavonoids, and terpenes. Terpenes and cannabinoids interact synergistically to promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others promote focus and acuity. The effect profile of a given terpene can change when combined with other terpenes and cannabinoids in a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. Research suggests that terpenes offer medicinal value as they mediate our body’s interaction with therapeutic cannabinoids. Technology has developed a method of distilling terpenes into highly concentrated forms that can be used individually or in conjunction with other terpenes. Terpene isolates are commonly used in cosmetic products, incense, food flavorings, perfumes, natural medicines and a wide variety of everyday products. Pure, isolated terpenes are highly concentrated and may pose health risks if consumed or applied to the skin with out proper dilution. Working with terpenes is shaman-like, calling on an understanding the terpene to safely unlocking their amazing potential. For instance, certain varietals are more potent than others, meaning that one dilution method cannot be applied to every type of terpene. Achieving balance can be tricky but well worth the personal learning needed. -- Beverly Potter

Recent Advances in Phytochemistry, Volume 6: Terpenoids: Structure, Biogenesis, and Distribution covers the advances in the chemistry and biochemistry of terpenoids, and the use of information regarding the occurrence of such compounds in genetics and population ecology. The book discusses the applications of physical methods to some structural and stereochemical problems in terpenes and steroids; novel sesquiterpenes isolated in composites; and the chemistry and biogenesis of the quassinoids (Simaroubolides). The text then describes the recent developments in the biosynthesis of plant triterpenes; the mechanisms of indole alkaloid biosynthesis, recognition of intermediacy and sequence by short-term incubation; and the biochemistry and physiology of lower terpenoids. The genetic and biosynthetic relationships of monoterpenes; and the confirmation of a clinal pattern of chemical differentiation in Juniperus virginiana from terpenoid data obtained in successive years are also encompassed. Botanists, biochemists, and people involved in the study of phytochemistry will find the book invaluable.

For research workers, advanced students and university lecturers.

The book comprises selected communications on terpenes and terpene derivatives. It clearly demonstrates the sustained interest and importance in this field of natural products; the field connected to secondary metabolites; and renewable resources of plant and animal compounds for medicinal, material, supramolecular, and general chemistry research. It includes 17 papers, 5 review articles, and 12 research communications with a vast range of topics with different perspectives. It commemorates the great work and legacy of prof. Kenji Mori, and provides important material not only to many chemists but also to specialists in several other fields.

Terpenoids play an important part in all our lives, from Vitamin A and hormones to perfumes and pharmaceuticals. This book provides an introduction to terpenoid chemistry, concentrating on the lower terpenoids, but the basic principles taught are also the foundation for the chemistry of the higher terpenoids. Coverage includes: the biogenesis of terpenoids; some of the history of the field; the principles of structural determination; and the importance of stereochemistry and stereoselective synthesis. Carbocation chemistry is introduced, as are the principles of total and partial synthesis. Finally, industrial chemistry (both discovery chemistry and chemical process development) is discussed, using the volatile terpenoids of perfumery to illustrate basic concepts. Ideal as both an introduction to terpenoid chemistry and as a refresher course, A Fragrant Introduction to Terpenoid Chemistry, with its real-life problems and appreciation of the relevance of chemistry to everyday life, will prove invaluable to students, lecturers and industrialists alike.

Unites a biological and a biotechnological perspective on cyanobacteria, and includes the industrial aspects and applications of cyanobacteria Cyanobacteria Biotechnology offers a guide to the interesting and useful features of cyanobacteria metabolism that keeps true to a biotechnology vision. In one volume the book brings together both biology and biotechnology to illuminate the core acpects and principles of cyanobacteria metabolism. Designed to offer a practical approach to the metabolic engineering of cyanobacteria, the book contains relevant examples of how this metabolic "module" is currently being engineered and how it could be engineered in the future. The author includes information on the requirements and real-world experiences of the industrial applications of cyanobacteria. This important book: Brings together biology and biotechnology in order to gain insight into the industrial relevant topic of cyanobacteria Introduces the key aspects of the metabolism of cyanobacteria Presents a grounded, practical approach to the metabolic engineering of cyanobacteria Offers an analysis of the requirements and experiences for industrial cyanobacteria Provides a framework for readers to design their own processes Written for biotechnologists, microbiologists, biologists, biochemists, Cyanobacteria Biotechnology provides a systematic and clear volume that brings together the biological and biotechnological perspective on cyanobacteria.