Koniferilalkohol

Koniferilalkohol, or coniferyl alcohol in English, is a hydroxycinnamyl alcohol and a primary monolignol in plant cell walls. It has the chemical formula C10H12O3 and is a key precursor in lignin biosynthesis, contributing guaiacyl (G) units to the lignin polymer, particularly in gymnosperms.

Biogenesis and occurrence: In the phenylpropanoid pathway, phenylalanine is converted through several steps to coniferyl aldehyde, which is then reduced by cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase to form coniferyl alcohol. It coexists with sinapyl and p-coumaryl alcohol as the main monolignols that feed lignin construction. Coniferyl alcohol is widely distributed in vascular plants and is especially prevalent as a lignin precursor in many gymnosperms.

Role in lignin formation and properties: During lignification, coniferyl alcohol can be oxidized by peroxidases or laccases to form reactive radicals that couple into the lignin polymer. This results in guaiacyl-rich lignin typical of many gymnosperms. The monolignol composition, including contributions from coniferyl alcohol, influences lignin structure, cross-linking, and properties relevant to plant cell walls and industrial processing.

Industrial relevance and research: Koniferilalkohol is used in scientific research as a model substrate for studying lignification, enzyme specificity, and phenylpropanoid metabolism. It also serves as a starting point for chemical transformations aimed at modifying lignin structure or deriving related compounds for biomaterials and fragrance chemistry.

Safety and handling: Handling should follow standard practices for phenolic compounds. Avoid inhalation of powders or vapors and minimize skin or eye contact. Use appropriate personal protective equipment and consult the safety data sheet for specifics.