Biosynthesis of the widely distributed hydrocarbon (Z,Z)-6,9-heptadecadiene in astigmatid mites

Abstract

Using a crude enzyme solution prepared from astigmatid mites, the conversion reaction to (Z,Z)-6,9-heptadecadiene (6,9-C17) using linoleyl aldehyde (LAld) as a substrate was successful. The mass spectrum of the reaction product using ¹³C-labeled LAld as a substrate could be assigned as ¹³C-labeled 6,9-C17. Unlike the findings in other species, the decarbonylase derived from mites did not require a coenzyme.

Keywords: Astigmatid mite; biosynthesis; hydrocarbon.