Issue 12, 2023

Chemistry, biosynthesis and biology of floral volatiles: roles in pollination and other functions

Abstract

Covering: 2010 to 2023

Floral volatiles are a chemically diverse group of plant metabolites that serve multiple functions. Their composition is shaped by environmental, ecological and evolutionary factors. This review will summarize recent advances in floral scent research from chemical, molecular and ecological perspectives. It will focus on the major chemical classes of floral volatiles, on notable new structures, and on recent discoveries regarding the biosynthesis and the regulation of volatile emission. Special attention will be devoted to the various functions of floral volatiles, not only as attractants for different types of pollinators, but also as defenses of flowers against enemies. We will also summarize recent findings on how floral volatiles are affected by abiotic stressors, such as increased temperatures and drought, and by other organisms, such as herbivores and flower-dwelling microbes. Finally, this review will indicate current research gaps, such as the very limited knowledge of the isomeric pattern of chiral compounds and its importance in interspecific interactions.

Graphical abstract: Chemistry, biosynthesis and biology of floral volatiles: roles in pollination and other functions

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
08 5月 2023
First published
04 9月 2023
This article is Open Access
Creative Commons BY-NC license

Nat. Prod. Rep., 2023,40, 1901-1937

Chemistry, biosynthesis and biology of floral volatiles: roles in pollination and other functions

S. Dötterl and J. Gershenzon, Nat. Prod. Rep., 2023, 40, 1901 DOI: 10.1039/D3NP00024A

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