Diterpene
Diterpene
Diterpene (pronounced: /diːˈtɜːrpiːn/) is a type of chemical compound that is part of the larger class of terpenes.
Etymology
The term "Diterpene" is derived from the Greek words "di" meaning two and "terpene" which refers to a class of hydrocarbons. This is because diterpenes are composed of two terpene units.
Description
Diterpenes are made up of 20 carbon atoms, which are derived from four isoprene units. They are often found in various types of plants, including conifers and angiosperms. Diterpenes play a crucial role in the biosynthesis of important biological compounds such as vitamin A and retinol.
Related Terms
- Terpenes: A large and diverse class of organic compounds, produced by a variety of plants, particularly conifers.
- Isoprene: A common organic compound with the formula CH2=C(CH3)−CH=CH2.
- Conifers: A type of tree that produces cones and evergreen needles.
- Angiosperms: A group of seed-producing plants also known as flowering plants.
- Biosynthesis: The production of complex molecules within living organisms or cells.
- Vitamin A: A group of unsaturated nutritional organic compounds that includes retinol, retinal, retinoic acid, and several provitamin A carotenoids.
- Retinol: A form of vitamin A that is important for vision, the immune system, and reproduction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Diterpene
- Wikipedia's article - Diterpene
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