Research Progress of Enzymes Associated with Terpene Synthesis in Camellia sinensis

 Terpenes are closely related to the tea aroma. The aromatic substances, such as nerol, linalool, nerolidol, α-farnesol, α-ionone, theaspirone, caryophyllene, copaene, cedrol, etc. are synthesized through the mevaonate and 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol-4-phosphate pathways in the plant. The complex regulating mechanisms of the process greatly impact the tea quality. This paper reviews the current research and development on the related enzymes, which are responsible for the synthesis of the aromatic terpenes in the tea plants in the pathways. A discussion focusing on future directions for studies is also presented.