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Delta-guaiene stands out as an intriguing sesquiterpene within the realm of hydrocarbons, celebrated for their intricate structures and their significance in diverse biological contexts. Belonging to the guaienes family, delta-guaiene is chemically identified as (3S,3aS,5R)-3,8-dimethyl-5-(prop-1-en-2-yl)-1,2,3,3a,4,5,6,7-octahydroazulene, showcasing a distinctive structure that underlines its unique attributes and biological roles[1,2]. Extracted from a variety of plant sources, guaienes, including delta-guaiene, are pivotal to the fragrance and flavor industries, valued for adding earthy and spicy notes to products. These compounds represent a group of naturally occurring chemical compounds that exemplify the rich variety and intricacy of natural substances and their practical uses[1,2]. The creation of delta-guaiene through the enzymatic reaction involving (2E,6E)-farnesyl diphosphate and catalyzed by delta-guaiene synthase highlights the critical role of enzymes in the natural synthesis of complex compounds. The variation in the output of delta-guaiene relative to alpha-guaiene by different clones of the enzyme from Aquilaria crassna points to the enzyme's influence in shaping the specific sesquiterpenoid composition of a particular organism. For example, the enzyme derived from Pogostemon cablin not only produces delta-guaiene but also other sesquiterpenoids such as (-)-patchoulol and alpha-guaiene, further illustrating the breadth of terpenoid biosynthesis [2].

References 

1. Wikipedia contributors. Guaienes. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guaiene. 

2. ChemSpider. δ-Guaiene | C15H24. Retrieved from http://www.chemspider.com/Chemical-Structure.85080.html. 

3. ExPASy. (No date available). ENZYME entry: EC 4.2.3.93. Retrieved from https://www.expasy.org/enzyme/4.2.3.93. 

GHS Hazard Statements

• H304 (100%): May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways [Danger Aspiration hazard]

• H315 (100%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

• H319 (100%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

Chemical and Physical Properties