Allene oxide

The parent allene oxide is CH2=C(O)CH2 (CAS RN 40079-14-9), a rare and reactive species of only theoretical interest.

Typical allene oxides require steric protection for their isolation.

They are intermediates in the chemical defense of some plants against attack by herbivores.

Specifically, a hydroperoxide of linolenic acid is the substrate for the enzyme allene oxide synthase.

[2] Nevertheless, allene oxides are extremely unstable even in biological contexts, decomposing with a half-life of approximately 15-30 s.[4]

Pathway for biosynthesis of jasmonic acid via allene oxide intermediate. Highlighted is the pentadiene core that is the site of the reactions. [ 3 ]