Farnesene – Nature’s Bioactive Ally: From Plant Defense to Sustainable Jet Fuel and Human Health Benefits

Abstract

Farnesenes are C₁₅ isoprenoids comprising six structurally related α- and β-isomers. These sesquiterpene volatile compounds play a crucial role in plant defense mechanisms and are associated with insect attraction, as well as the development of superficial scald in apples and pears during cold storage. Farnesenes hold substantial economic importance across various industries, including bioenergy, food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, they have been recognized as promising alternatives to conventional jet fuels due to their high cetane number, low greenhouse gas emissions, and superior cryogenic properties. Farnesene occurs naturally in several plant species, including rose, rosemary, citrus, apple, cannabis, gardenia, and basil. However, its biosynthesis in plants is inherently limited, yielding insufficient amounts for industrial demands. To address this, metabolic engineering has been used to develop microbial cell factories for farnesene production. Modified microorganisms like Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Escherichia coli, and Pichia pastoris have been engineered to enhance farnesene biosynthesis, providing a sustainable alternative for commercial production.