Plant volatiles: production, function and pharmacology

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Ecology

Background:

• Plant volatiles are complex mixtures of low-molecular weight lipophilic compounds.
• These compounds are derived from diverse biosynthetic pathways and play roles in defense against biotic/abiotic stress and physiological functions.
• Plants exhibit genotypic variation and phenotypic plasticity in the storage and emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent developments in the biosynthesis, ecological functions, and medicinal applications of plant VOCs.
• To highlight the complex interplay of biochemical pathways and genes involved in plant volatile production.
• To explore the under-exploited potential of plant VOCs in drug discovery.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent major developments in plant VOC research.
• Analysis of biosynthesis, ecological roles, and medicinal applications.
• Synthesis of information on genetic and physiological aspects of VOC production.

Main Results:

• Plant VOCs are crucial for plant-plant interactions, symbiotic signaling, and insect attraction.
• These compounds have established agricultural applications in pest control, flavors, and fragrances.
• Emerging evidence indicates significant biological activities of VOCs in mammals, suggesting potential therapeutic uses.

Conclusions:

• Plant VOCs are versatile molecules with critical ecological roles and agricultural relevance.
• Their complex biosynthesis involves numerous genes and pathways, with significant variation across plant species.
• Plant VOCs represent a promising, yet largely untapped, resource for novel drug discovery.