Publisher's Synopsis
The plant terpenoids exhibit enormous structural and functional diversity. Their functions range from regulating plant growth and acting as accessory pigments in photo-synthesis, to attracting animals for pollination. This volume contains the proceedings of an international symposium on the ecological chemistry and bio-chemistry of the plant terpenoids. It continues a tradition of regular reviews of the terpenoids by the Phytochemical Society of Europe, providing an overview of recent developments in their biochemistry. The book is divided into four sections dealing with chemistry and chemotaxonomy; biochemistry, biosynthesis, and physiology; pharmacology and toxiocology; and ecological biochemistry. Specific topics covered include, natural distribution, structural analysis, enzymology, medical applications, fungal infections, growth factors, and the role in plant insect relationships. The contributions in this book are from an international field of well-respected researchers and provide a useful introduction to the field and a flavour of current research.
