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Updated: May 2, 2026

Genetic Incorporation of Biosynthesized L-dihydroxyphenylalanine DOPA and Its Application to Protein Conjugation
Published on: August 24, 2018
The role of L-DOPA in plants
Anderson Ricardo Soares1, Rogério Marchiosi1, Rita de Cássia Siqueira-Soares1
1Laboratory of Plant Biochemistry; Department of Biochemistry; State University of Maringá; Maringá, PR, Brazil.
Abstract:
Since higher plants regularly release organic compounds into the environment, their decay products are often added to the soil matrix and a few have been reported as agents of plant-plant interactions. These compounds, active against higher plants, typically suppress seed germination, cause injury to root growth and other meristems, and inhibit seedling growth. Mucuna pruriens is an example of a successful cover crop with several highly active secondary chemical agents that are produced by its seeds, leaves and roots. The main phytotoxic compound encountered is the non-protein amino acid L-DOPA, which is used in treating the symptoms of Parkinson disease. In plants, L-DOPA is a precursor of many alkaloids, catecholamines, and melanin and is released from Mucuna into soils, inhibiting the growth of nearby plant species. This mini-review summarizes knowledge regarding L-DOPA in plants, providing a brief overview about its metabolic actions.
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