Which class of natural products is biosynthesized starting from $\mathrm{dimethylallyl} \mathrm{pyrophosphate}$?

• A. Terpenes
• B. Alkaloids
• C. Phenolics
• D. Polyketides

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that natural products are classified based on their biosynthetic origins, which means the type of precursor molecules and pathways used to build them.
2. Recognize that dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP) is a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of terpenes, which are constructed from isoprene units (C5 building blocks).
3. Recall that terpenes are formed by the polymerization of isoprene units derived from DMAPP and its isomer isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP), through the mevalonate or MEP pathway.
4. Note that other classes like alkaloids, phenolics, and polyketides originate from different precursors: alkaloids from amino acids, phenolics from shikimate or acetate pathways, and polyketides from acetyl-CoA or malonyl-CoA units.
5. Conclude that since dimethylallyl pyrophosphate is specifically involved in the formation of isoprene units, the class of natural products biosynthesized from it is terpenes.