Terp

Terpenes (also known as terps) are a large and diverse class of organic compounds, produced by a variety of plants, particularly conifers, and by some insects. They often have a strong odor and may protect the plants that produce them by deterring herbivores and by attracting predators and parasites of herbivores.

Chemistry

Terpenes are made up of hydrocarbons and their derivatives. The basic molecular formulas of terpenes are multiples of that of isoprene (C5H8), and the structure of terpenes often involves five-carbon isoprene units assembled and modified in thousands of ways. Most terpenes are multicyclic structures with functional groups on a carbon backbone of one or more fused rings. There are two major classes of terpenes:

• Monoterpenes (C10H16) consist of two isoprene units and have the molecular formula C10H16.
• Sesquiterpenes (C15H24) consist of three isoprene units and have the molecular formula C15H24.

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of terpenes involves the combination of several isoprene units to form a single terpene molecule. This process is catalyzed by enzymes known as terpene synthases. The initial step in the pathway is the conversion of the simple five-carbon molecule isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) to its isomer, dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP).

Uses

Terpenes have a wide range of uses in both natural and industrial contexts. They are a major component of resin, and are often used in food additives, perfumery, and aromatherapy. Some terpenes are known to have physiological effects on the human body. For example, some act as local anesthetics that reduce the sensitivity of nerves and lessen pain, while others have been found to have antibacterial or antifungal properties.

See also

• Essential oil
• Perfume
• Aromatherapy