The enzyme ent-kaurene synthase (EC 4.2.3.19) catalyzes the chemical reaction This enzyme belongs to the family of lyases, specifically those carbon-oxygen lyases acting on phosphates.
The systematic name of this enzyme class is ent-copalyl-diphosphate diphosphate-lyase (cyclizing, ent-kaurene-forming).
In Stevia spp., ent-kaurene synthase is a required part of the biosynthesis of steviol.
[1][2] Both inhbit transcription of steviol glycoside synthesis genes including ent-kaurene synthase.
[1][2] This is believed to reduce steviol content in the final plant product.