Terpenoids and Biotechnology

Terpenoids, or isoprenoids, represent a large and structurally diverse class of isoprene-based secondary metabolites that play a fundamental role in the organism of all living beings. In nature, terpenes are essential for the interaction of organisms with their environment, mediating antagonistic and beneficial interactions between organisms. In this chapter, we will cover the biotechnology production of terpenes, as well as their biosynthesis by micro-organisms. We will also investigate the various pharmaceutical applications of these compounds.