The biosynthesis, metabolism and translocation of β-amyrin in Sorghum bicolor

Abstract The biosynthesis of [ 14 C] β-amyrin and three other labelled 3β-hydroxypentacyclic triterpenes from [2- 14C ] acetate in leaves of Sorghum bicolor was demonstrated. Evidence for the metabolism of [ 14 C] β-amyrin to the corresponding C-3 ketone (β-amyrone) and for the transport of [ 14 C] β-amyrin in leaves was also obtained.