Terpene biosynthesis. Part VI. Monoterpenes and carotenoids from tissue cultures of Tanacetum vulgare L.

Abstract

Culture lines of Tanacetum vulgare L. which synthesise monoterpenes and carotenoids have been maintained in vitro for up to two years. The monoterpene pattern differed from that in the whole plant in that sabinene rather than isothujone was the main component. Xanthophylls were the only pigments formed. Specialised culture lines produced additionally β,β-carotene and chlorophyll.

Tracer studies revealed the formation of mevalonyl 5-phosphate, mevalonyl 5-pyrophosphate, and isopentenyl and 3,3′-dimethylallyl pyrophosphates in these cultures, and mevalonic acid was rapidly and significantly (ca. 0.01%) incorporated into monoterpenes.