Biosynthesis of Hyperforin in Hypericum perforatum

Cut sprouts of Hypericum perforatum were proffered solutions containing [1-¹³C]glucose or [U-¹³C₆]glucose. Hyperforin was isolated and analyzed by quantitative NMR spectroscopy. The labeling patterns show that the biosynthesis of hyperforin involves five isoprenoid moieties, which are derived entirely or predominantly (>98%) via the deoxyxylulose phosphate pathway. The phloroglucinol moiety is generated via a polyketide type mechanism.