Apocarotenoids: A New Carotenoid-Derived Pathway

Area of Science:

• Plant biochemistry and molecular biology
• Phytochemistry
• Plant signaling

Background:

• Carotenoids are essential plant pigments.
• Apocarotenoids are derived from carotenoids and have diverse functions.
• Apocarotenoids are involved in plant-environment interactions, including pollinator attraction and defense.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of apocarotenoid biosynthesis and function in plants.
• To review the enzymes involved in carotenoid to apocarotenoid transformation.
• To highlight the diversity and importance of apocarotenoids.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of carotenoid and apocarotenoid research.
• Analysis of carotenoid cleavage oxygenase enzymes.
• Discussion of biosynthetic pathways and functional roles.

Main Results:

• Apocarotenoids encompass a wide range of compounds, including volatiles and phytohormones.
• Key precursors include lycopene, β-carotene, and zeaxanthin.
• Carotenoid cleavage dioxygenases and 9-cis-epoxydioxygenases are crucial for apocarotenoid synthesis.

Conclusions:

• Apocarotenoids are critical for plant survival and interaction with their environment.
• Understanding apocarotenoid pathways offers insights into plant development and defense.
• Further research on carotenoid cleavage oxygenases will elucidate novel functions.