Monoterpene synthases contribute to the volatile production in tana (Zanthoxylum ailanthoides) through indigenous cultivation practices.

Tana (Zanthoxylum ailanthoides), a perennial deciduous species in the Rutaceae family, possesses leaves with a unique fragrance that indigenous peoples incorporate into their traditional cuisine. In Kalibuan, the cultivated tana trees were pruned repeatedly to maintain a shorter height, which led to the growth of new leaves that were spicier and pricklier. Tana leaves contain a range of volatile terpenoids, and the pungent aroma may arise from the presence of monoterpenoids.

Sesquiterpene Synthases of : Sources of Unique Aromas of a Folklore Plant in Taiwan.

is a traditional spice crop in Taiwan with unique smells and tastes that differ between prickly (young) and nonprickly (mature) leaves. Different volatile terpenes between prickly young and nonprickly mature leaves were identified and considered to be one of the sources of their aromas. A transcriptome database was established to explore the biosynthesis of these compounds, and candidate terpene synthase genes were identified.