farneseen

Farneseen is a sesquiterpene, a class of organic compounds produced by plants. It is a hydrocarbon, meaning it is composed solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Farneseen exists in several isomeric forms, with alpha-farnesene and beta-farnesene being the most common. These isomers differ in the positions of their double bonds. Farneseen is a volatile compound, contributing to the aroma of various fruits, most notably apples.

In nature, farneseen plays a role in plant defense mechanisms and fruit ripening. It is synthesized in the epidermal wax layer of apples and other fruits, where it helps to deter insects and prevent water loss. As fruits ripen, the production of farneseen can increase, contributing to their characteristic scents. It is also found in some essential oils, such as chamomile oil.

Synthetic farneseen has found commercial applications. A notable example is its use in the development of insect repellents and pesticides, often targeting specific insect species. Additionally, biotechnological approaches have been developed to produce farneseen through fermentation, allowing for its use in a wider range of products. Its relatively low toxicity and biodegradability make it an attractive alternative in some applications.