The tail of chlorophyll: Fates for phytol

Understanding the pathways involved in chlorophyll breakdown provides a molecular map to the color changes observed in plant life on a global scale each fall. Surprisingly, little is known about the fate of phytol, chlorophyll's 20-carbon branched-chain tail, during this process. A recent study from Gutbrod et al. provides evidence using physiological, genetic, and exquisitely sensitive analytical approaches that phytenal is an intermediate in plant phytol catabolism. These insights and techniques open the door to further investigation of this complicated metabolic system, with implications for plant health and agriculture.

Automated summary

Understanding the pathways of chlorophyll breakdown and the fate of phytol in plants reveals insights into the color changes observed in global plant life during the fall season. Recent research has identified phytenal as an intermediate in plant phytol catabolism, opening up opportunities for further investigation into this complex metabolic system with implications for plant health and agriculture.