Sterols, Carotenoid and Polyprenols

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.