Apocarotenoids of Crocus sativus L: From biosynthesis to pharmacology

This book is a product of years of research on saffron biology. It intends to give a broad but concise overview of the various aspects of apocarotenoid biosynthesis in Crocus sativus, its regulation and pharmacology . Crocus sativus L. of family Iridaceae is an important medicinal plant. The dried stigma of C. sativus flower is considered as the world's costliest spice. Saffron is the sources of unique carotenoid derived molecules called apocarotenoids which include crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin and safranal. These molecules are synthesized in the tissue and developmental stage specific manner. Besides providing colour, aroma and flavour to the spice, these molecules have tremendous medicinal importance. The book uncovers major concepts of apocarotenoids biosynthesis and provides deeper and more complete understanding about their biotechnological and pharmacological applications. The book is divided into three sections - The first section provides a general introduction of C. sativus, its apocarotenoids, their biosynthesis, regulation and transport. Second section provides information about the carotenoid cleavage dioxygenases (CCDs) which are the key players in apocarotenoid biosynthesis. The classification of plant CCDs, their structure, reaction mechanism, biotechnological application are thoroughly discussed. The final section deals with the major pharmacological properties of C. sativus apocarotenoids, ranging from their role as anticancer to their utility as neuroprotective molecules. This is a one of its kind book on Crocus sativus. It will be useful for the researchers working on Crocus sativus, students and also practitioners involved in extraction and bio-synthesis of the useful medical components.