Biosynthesis of Insect Pheromones

Abstract

The review summarizes recent knowledge on chemical methods used in the research of biosynthetic pathways of insect pheromones. Precursors labelled with stable isotopes (¹³C, ²H, ¹⁸O, ¹⁵N, ³¹P) or radioactive isotopes (¹⁴C, ³H) are used in different forms and their metabolites are searched for using spectral methods (MS, isotope-ratio-monitoring MS, ¹³C NMR) or chromatographic methods (radio-HPLC or radio-GC). Specific examples and information are given on the pheromone biosynthesis in the insect generas of cockroaches (Blattodea), beetles (Coleoptera), flies (Diptera), butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera), ants and bees (Hymenoptera).