Terpenes
Terpenes are a class of organic compounds, produced by a variety of plants and some insects. These compounds are derived biosynthetically from units of isoprene (shown) and are classified sequentially by size as hemiterpenes, monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, sesterterpenes, triterpenes, and tetraterpenes, all synthesized by terpene synthase. Terpenes (hydrocarbons) containing additional functional groups are called terpenoids. Terpenes have desirable properties for use in food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.