Terpenoids

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.

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.

This book highlights how terpenoids act as biological messengers and can be used as medicine against liver disease, neurodegenerative disease, cancer, infectious disease, cardiovascular disease, and inflammatory diseases. It emphasizes the metabolic engineering approach of terpenoids production and their toxicity.

A compilation of all the known information on terpenoids specifically triterpenoids, is presented in these volumes. The most important available information on a particular compound is discussed, such as its isolation/occurence, available spectral data, and leading references on structural determination. Additionally, triterpenoids synthesis, biosynthesis, proven pharmacological properties, and any known applications are explained. A comprehensive general introduction has been included which surveys the development of triterpenoid chemistry from the beginning to the present. Extremely helpful is the selected list of references to books and reviews dealing with various aspects of triterpenoid chemistry.

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.

This book is written for B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons.) and M.Sc., students. The subject is presented in a very systematic manner. Simple language is used, diagrams/illustrations are generously used to emphasise reaction. Sites, to indicate reaction pathways. Emphasis is placed on the correlation of the structure of functional group with its properties. A detailed molecular orbital and valance bond interpretation of the structure of each functional group is given. This enable the student to predict the properties of the functional group. Fundamental principles of energetics, reaction rates and stereochemistry are provided to lay a strong foundation. Mechanisms are described in a step by step manner.

In contrast to books on specific bioactive compounds, this book deals with the role of mevalonic acid metabolites (isoprenoids and their derived structures) in metabolism, development, and functions of organisms, which, though diverse, show various levels of communication. Different disciplines are brought together in a discussion of the messenger functions of terpenoids within and between organisms belonging to five biological kingdoms: bacteria, fungi, plants, insects, and vertebrates (including humans). The present volume covers evolutionary aspects of terpenoids in plant physiology, plant-insect relationships, semiochemicals, and in life sciences, with special emphasis on cancer research and treatment. The book provides proposals for multidisciplinary model systems for the study of interrelationships of organisms utilizing terpenoid messengers, and discusses novel strategies for insect control and multifactor treatments of cancer utilizing terpenoids. This book is of interest to scientists, and students at an advanced level: biologists, plant breeders, pharmacologists, specialists in medical fields, especially oncologists, physicians in general, and anyone with a basic biochemical and physiological knowledge.