isoprenoidderived

Isoprenoidderived refers to compounds that are synthesized in biological systems from isoprene units, which are five-carbon molecules. These compounds are a vast and diverse group, playing critical roles in all living organisms. The fundamental building block is isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and its isomer dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP), which are produced through distinct metabolic pathways, namely the mevalonate pathway and the methylerythritol phosphate pathway. These five-carbon units are then sequentially added together to form longer chains.

The simplest isoprenoids are monoterpenoids, composed of two isoprene units. Examples include menthol and limonene, found in essential oils. Sesquiterpenoids, with three isoprene units, are also common, such as farnesol. Diterpenoids, made of four isoprene units, include compounds like retinol (vitamin A) and gibberellins, a class of plant hormones. Further elongation leads to sesterterpenoids (five units), triterpenoids (six units), and tetraterpenoids (eight units). Carotenoids, like beta-carotene, are prominent examples of tetraterpenoids. Polyisoprenoids, composed of many repeating isoprene units, include natural rubber and dolichols, which are important membrane-bound lipids involved in protein glycosylation.

Isoprenoidderived compounds exhibit a wide array of functions, including acting as pigments, signaling molecules, vitamins, hormones, and structural components. Their diverse structures and biological activities make them essential for life and valuable in various applications, such as pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and materials science.