title: Metabolism of monoterpenes in mint (mentha) species.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-6340, U.S.A.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Croteau