Diterpene

Geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate, the starting material for the biosynthesis of diterpenes

Diterpenes are a class of terpenes composed of four isoprene units, often with the molecular formula C₂₀H₃₂. They are biosynthesized by plants, animals and fungi via the HMG-CoA reductase pathway, with geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate being a primary intermediate. Diterpenes form the basis for biologically important compounds such as retinol, retinal, and phytol. Some diterpenes are known to be antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory.^[1]^[2]

^ Eberhard Breitmaier (2006). "Diterpenes". Terpenes: Flavors, Fragrances, Pharmaca, Pheromones. pp. 52–81. doi:10.1002/9783527609949.ch4. ISBN 978-3-527-60994-9.
^ Davis, Edward M.; Croteau, Rodney (2000). "Cyclization Enzymes in the Biosynthesis of Monoterpenes, Sesquiterpenes, and Diterpenes". Topics in Current Chemistry. 209: 53–95. doi:10.1007/3-540-48146-X_2. ISBN 978-3-540-66573-1.