Terpenoidföreningar

Terpenoidföreningar, also known as isoprenoids, are a large and diverse class of naturally occurring organic chemicals derived from repeating units of isoprene, a five-carbon molecule. These compounds are synthesized by plants, fungi, and some bacteria through the mevalonate pathway or the methylerythritol phosphate pathway. The fundamental building block of terpenoids is the isoprene unit, which can be linked together in various ways to form larger and more complex structures.

Terpenoids are classified based on the number of isoprene units they contain. Monoterpenoids are composed of two isoprene units, sesquiterpenoids of three, diterpenoids of four, and so on. Higher multiples include sesterterpenoids (five), triterpenoids (six), and tetraterpenoids (eight). Polyterpenoids are very large polymers of isoprene units, such as natural rubber.

These compounds exhibit a wide range of biological activities and play crucial roles in nature. They are responsible for the distinctive aromas and flavors of many plants, contributing to the scent of flowers, fruits, and spices. Examples include menthol in mint, limonene in citrus fruits, and pinene in pine trees. Many terpenoids also possess pharmacological properties, serving as sources for pharmaceuticals such as artemisinin (an antimalarial drug) and paclitaxel (a chemotherapy agent). They can also act as pigments, hormones, and signaling molecules.