Geranyl pyrophosphate

Geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP), also known as geranyl diphosphate, is a critical intermediate in the biosynthesis of many types of natural products. It is an isoprenoid compound that is derived from the condensation of isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP).

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of geranyl pyrophosphate is catalyzed by the enzyme geranyl diphosphate synthase. This enzyme catalyzes the condensation of one molecule of DMAPP and one molecule of IPP to form GPP and pyrophosphate (PPi). The reaction is a reversible one, but in vivo it is driven to completion by the rapid hydrolysis of the released PPi.

Role in Terpenoid Biosynthesis

Geranyl pyrophosphate is a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of terpenes, terpenoids, and steroids. It serves as the precursor for the synthesis of monoterpenes, which are C10 compounds. The conversion of GPP to these compounds is catalyzed by various terpene synthases.

Role in Prenylation

In addition to its role in terpenoid biosynthesis, geranyl pyrophosphate also serves as a substrate for prenylation reactions. Prenylation is a post-translational modification that involves the addition of hydrophobic molecules to a protein. This modification can influence the protein's location within the cell, its interaction with other proteins, and its overall function.

See Also

• Farnesyl pyrophosphate
• Isopentenyl pyrophosphate
• Dimethylallyl pyrophosphate
• Terpenes
• Terpenoids
• Steroids
• Prenylation