Metabolism of monoterpenes in mint (mentha) species.
Commercial mint ( MENTHA) species produce either C3-oxygenated or C6-oxygenated P-menthane monoterpene as the major essential oil components. The biosynthetic origin of both of these monoterpene families from the common precursor (-)-limonene is described. The metabolic turnover of monoterpenes occurs during late stages of plant development, and the pathway for the transport and catabolism of (-)-menthone in peppermint is reviewed as a model for this general process. The developmental regulation of monoterpene metabolism is briefly outlined.
Croteau
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Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-6340, U.S.A.