Isoprenoid compounds are a family of compounds constructed with isoprene
as the basic unit but with very different structures, including monoterpenes, diterpenes
and polyterpenes. Isoprenoid compounds mainly include ergosterol, steroids, carotene,
carotenoids, polyisoprene, and their structures range from relatively simple linear
hydrocarbon chains to highly complex cyclic structures, in which the cyclic structure is
cyclized by terpenoids. Enzymes, also known as terpene synthase catalyzed by them,
are also called cyclic terpenes. Isoprenoids are widely distributed in archaea, bacteria,
and eukaryotes, and a variety of isoprenoids are essential components of the biological
mechanism of the organism. For example, in mammals, β-carotene (β-carotene) is the
precursor substance of Vitamin A. β-carotene has the function of preventing oxidation
reactions, and can inhibit and eliminate oxygen free radicals in the body, and has
various effects such as slowing down aging and improving resistance. At the same
time, carotenoids can be combined with protein. Astaxanthin and protein combine to
form astaxanthin, which makes aquatic animals appear body color and has a certain
protective effect. Therefore, ergosterol, steroids, carotene, carotenoids and
polyisoprene, which are relatively large in terpenoids, are all important products with
commercial value and have been widely used in food, medicine, and daily chemical
products.
Keywords: Carotenoid, Dolichol, Polyprenols, Pigment, Sterols, Terpenoid.
