Delta-Cadinene (CAS 483-76-1): A Comprehensive Guide to its Biochemistry and Research Applications
(+)-Delta-Cadinene is a pivotal
bicyclic sesquiterpene hydrocarbon (C₁₅H₂₄) that plays a critical role in plant secondary metabolism, particularly
in the biosynthesis of phytoalexins. As a high-purity analytical standard, it
is indispensable for researchers in pharmacognosy, metabolomics, and fragrance
chemistry.
1. Technical Profile: CAS 483-76-1
Chemical Name
(+)-Delta-Cadinene; (1S,8aR)-1,2,3,5,6,8a-hexahydro-4,7-dimethyl-1-(1-methylethyl)naphthalene
CAS Number
483-76-1
Molecular Formula
C15H24
Molecular Weight
204.35 g/mol
Appearance
Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Solubility
Soluble in ethanol, oils; insoluble in water
2. Key Research & Industrial Applications
A. Plant Biochemistry & Biosynthesis
In plant species like Gossypium (cotton), (+)-delta-cadinene is
synthesized via farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) through the action of (+)-delta-cadinene
synthase.
- Defense
Mechanism: It serves as a precursor
to gossypol, a key phytoalexin that protects plants from pathogens and
herbivores.
- Genetic
Research: It is a model compound
for studying tissue-specific gene expression in plant secondary
metabolism.
B. Analytical Chemistry & GC-MS Profiling
For laboratories performing essential oil analysis, this compound serves
as a critical analytical reference standard:
- Retention
Index Calibration: Used to
identify sesquiterpene fractions in complex matrices.
- Terpenoid
Fingerprinting: Vital for
the authenticity testing of woody and spicy essential oils.
C. Pharmacology: Anti-Cancer & Antimicrobial
Potential
Recent studies (notably in Cancers 2025) indicate that $\delta$-cadinene
exhibits significant bioactivity:
- MMP-2
Inhibition: Research shows potential
in inhibiting Matrix Metalloproteinase-2, which is linked to reduced
cancer cell invasion and metastasis.
- Antimicrobial
Properties: Demonstrates efficacy
against various fungal and bacterial strains in agricultural and clinical
research.
D. Fragrance & Olfactory Science
With a unique woody-spicy and dry-herbal odor profile,
delta-cadinene is utilized in:
- Scent
Formulation: Developing
complex woody base notes.
- Structure-Odor
Relationship (SOR) Studies:
Understanding how molecular chirality affects scent perception.
3. Why Choose Finetech Industry Limited?
Finetech Industry Limited provides research-grade (+)-DELTA-CADINENE
(CAS 483-76-1) with rigorous quality control:
- High Purity: Verified by GC-FID, NMR, and Mass Spectrometry
(MS).
- Reliable
Logistics: Global shipping with
optimized packaging for chemical stability.
- Technical
Support: Comprehensive COA and
MSDS provided for every batch.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the biological source of (+)-delta-cadinene?
A: It is naturally found in the essential oils of cotton, cedar, and
various woody plants. It is a product of sesquiterpene cyclase activity.
Q: Is delta-cadinene used in the fragrance industry?
A: Yes, it is valued for its woody and spicy olfactory profile and is used
as a reference for fragrance characterization.
Q: What is the significance of CAS 483-76-1 in cancer research?
A: It has been studied as a selective inhibitor of proteins like MMP-2,
which are involved in the migration and invasion of metastatic cancer cells.
5. Reference Literature
- Davis, G. D.,
et al. "(+)-δ-cadinene is
a product of sesquiterpene cyclase activity in cotton." Phytochemistry.
- Chen, X. Y.,
et al. "Isolation of a
(+)-delta-cadinene synthase gene CAD1-A." PubMed.
- MMP-2
Research. "In Silico and In
Vitro Evaluation of δ-cadinene as a Selective Inhibitor of Human Cell
Adhesion." MDPI Cancers.