On the origins of triterpenoid skeletal diversity

Phytochemistry. 2004 Feb;65(3):261-91. doi: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2003.11.014.

Abstract

The triterpenoids are a large group of natural products derived from C(30) precursors. Nearly 200 different triterpene skeletons are known from natural sources or enzymatic reactions that are structurally consistent with being cyclization products of squalene, oxidosqualene, or bis-oxidosqualene. This review categorizes each of these structures and provides mechanisms for their formation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alcohols / chemistry
  • Alcohols / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Cyclization
  • Squalene / analogs & derivatives
  • Squalene / metabolism
  • Triterpenes / chemistry*
  • Triterpenes / metabolism*

Substances

  • Alcohols
  • Triterpenes
  • Squalene