indole3acetaldehyde

Indole-3-acetaldehyde (IAAld) is an organic compound with the chemical formula C10H9NO. It is a naturally occurring molecule that plays a role in plant physiology as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), the primary auxin plant hormone. IAAld is formed from tryptophan and is converted to IAA through oxidation.

The synthesis of IAAld within plants can occur through several pathways. One major route involves the decarboxylation of tryptophan to tryptamine, followed by oxidative deamination to indole-3-acetaldehyde. Another pathway involves the direct oxidation of tryptophan. The enzymes responsible for these conversions are crucial for regulating auxin levels in plants.

The conversion of IAAld to IAA is primarily carried out by aldehyde oxidases. This step is vital because IAA is the biologically active form of auxin, regulating numerous growth and developmental processes, including cell elongation, division, and differentiation, as well as responses to light and gravity.

While primarily known for its role in auxin biosynthesis, IAAld itself may possess some auxin-like activity, though generally less potent than IAA. Research has also explored its presence and potential functions in other organisms, including bacteria and fungi, where it may be involved in signaling or metabolic processes. The precise biological significance and endogenous levels of IAAld in various organisms are subjects of ongoing scientific investigation.