Structure and biological significance of buprestin from European jewel beetles

Grako678 B2

From 01/2004 to 12/2007

Staff: Carlo Unverzagt, Konrad Dettner
Grant: GK 678/2 Graduate College 678: Ecological Significance of Natural Compounds and other Signals in Insects - from Structure to Function

A total synthesis for two bitter compounds isolated from the Australian jewel beetles, buprestin A and buprestin B were developed in our lab confirming the proposed structures. The next step of the project will be the analysis of European species (Buprestidae) for these compounds. Regarding the presence of buprestins in various developmental stages, larvae, pupae and eggs will be collected and analysed. In parallel, biological tests of synthetic buprestin A and B will be established. In order to assess the biosynthesis and the metabolism of buprestins, a synthesis of a series of varied buprestins is envisioned. Additionally, novel routes are planned to improve the established chemoenzymatic synthesis of buprestin A and B.

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