Natural Terpenoids as Messengers, 2000
A multidisciplinary study of their production, biological functions and practical applications

In contrast to books on specific bioactive compounds, this book deals with the role of mevalonic acid metabolites (isoprenoids and their derived structures) in metabolism, development, and functions of organisms, which, though diverse, show various levels of communication. Different disciplines are brought together in a discussion of the messenger functions of terpenoids within and between organisms belonging to five biological kingdoms: bacteria, fungi, plants, insects, and vertebrates (including humans).
The present volume covers evolutionary aspects of terpenoids in plant physiology, plant-insect relationships, semiochemicals, and in life sciences, with special emphasis on cancer research and treatment. The book provides proposals for multidisciplinary model systems for the study of interrelationships of organisms utilizing terpenoid messengers, and discusses novel strategies for insect control and multifactor treatments of cancer utilizing terpenoids.
This book is of interest to scientists, and students at an advanced level: biologists, plant breeders, pharmacologists, specialists in medical fields, especially oncologists, physicians in general, and anyone with a basic biochemical and physiological knowledge.

1 Introduction.- 2 Production of terpenes and terpenoids.- 2.1 Biosynthesis of isoprenoids.- 2.2 Production of terpenoids by different organisms.- 3 The origin and evolution of terpenoid messengers.- 3.1 Selection of key enzymes in isoprenoid biosynthesis.- 3.2 Feedback mechanisms.- 3.3 Other types of feedback regulation.- 3.4 Site of action of the regulatory mechanisms.- 3.5 Interference with DNA synthesis: prenylated proteins.- 4 Specific properties of terpenoids.- 4.1 Messengers on the cellular level.- 4.2 Direct toxic effects.- 5 Functions of natural terpenoids in the interrelationships between organisms.- 5.1 Semiochemicals.- 5.2 Relationship between structure and function.- 6 Terpenoids in practice.- 6.1 Natural terpenoids and their sources.- 6.2 Utilization of terpenoids in biology and agriculture.- 7 Natural terpenoids to the benefit of human health.- 7.1 Applications in medicine.- 7.2 Cosmetics.- 7.3 Terpenoid analogues and derivatives.- 8 Prospectus and suggestions for further research.- 8.1 Search for new bioactive terpenoids.- 8.2 A multidisciplinary approach.- Epilogue.- References.- General reading.