Allelopathic compounds, the chemical mediators of plant interactions, originate from diverse
biosynthetic pathways within plants. These pathways, often complex and interconnected, give
rise to a wide array of allelochemicals with varying structures and modes of action. Here's a
detailed look at some of the basic pathways responsible for the origin of these compounds:
1. Phenylpropanoid Pathway:
This is a central pathway in plants, leading to the biosynthesis of a vast array of phenolic
compounds, many of which exhibit allelopathic activity.
It starts with the amino acid phenylalanine, which is then converted into cinnamic acid.
Cinnamic acid serves as a precursor for various other phenolic compounds, including:
o Phenolic acids: These include compounds like benzoic acid, salicylic acid, and
ferulic acid, which can inhibit seed germination, root growth, and nutrient uptake
in target plants.
o Coumarins: These compounds can have diverse effects, including inhibiting seed
germination, disrupting photosynthesis, and even acting as phytoalexins
(compounds with antimicrobial activity).
o Lignins: These complex polymers provide structural support to plants but can
also be released into the environment and affect neighboring plants.
o Flavonoids: These pigments, besides their role in plant coloration, can also act as
allelochemicals, influencing plant growth and development.
2. Isoprenoid Pathway:
This pathway leads to the biosynthesis of a diverse group of compounds called
terpenoids, many of which are volatile and contribute to allelopathic interactions.
It starts with the synthesis of isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP), which is then used to
build various terpenoids, including:
o Monoterpenes: These volatile compounds, like menthol and limonene, can have
strong allelopathic effects, inhibiting seed germination and disrupting cell
membranes.
o Sesquiterpenes: These compounds, like abscisic acid, can also act as
allelochemicals, influencing plant growth and development.
o Diterpenes: These compounds, like gibberellins, can have diverse effects on plant
growth, including promoting or inhibiting stem elongation and seed germination.
o Triterpenes: These compounds, like saponins, can have various biological
activities, including allelopathic effects on neighboring plants.
3. Shikimic Acid Pathway:
This pathway is involved in the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids, including
phenylalanine and tyrosine, which are precursors for various allelochemicals.
It also leads to the production of other compounds with allelopathic potential, such as:
o Benzoic acids: These phenolic acids can have allelopathic effects, inhibiting seed
germination and root growth.
o Gallic acid: This phenolic acid can be released from decomposing plant material
and affect neighboring plants.
4. Acetate Pathway:
This pathway is involved in the biosynthesis of various compounds, including:
o Fatty acids: These can be broken down into various allelochemicals, including
volatile compounds that affect neighboring plants.
o Polyketides: These compounds can have diverse biological activities, including
allelopathic effects on other plants.
5. Cyanogenic Glucosides:
These compounds are found in various plant species and can be broken down to release
cyanide, a potent inhibitor of cellular respiration.
This can have strong allelopathic effects on neighboring plants and even animals.
Factors Influencing Allelochemical Production:
The production of allelochemicals can be influenced by various factors, including:
Environmental stresses: Factors like drought, nutrient deficiency, and pathogen attack
can induce the production of allelochemicals as a defense mechanism.
Developmental stage: The type and concentration of allelochemicals can vary depending
on the plant's developmental stage.
Genetics: Different plant species and even varieties within a species can have different
capacities for producing allelochemicals.
Ecological Significance:
The diverse array of allelochemicals produced through these pathways plays a crucial role in
plant interactions and community dynamics. These compounds can mediate competition,
influence plant community structure, and even contribute to the success of invasive species.
Understanding the basic pathways for the origin of allelopathic compounds is essential for
comprehending their ecological roles and exploring their potential applications in agriculture and
weed management.
