Enantiospecificity of Pheromones, Sweeteners, Fragrances, and Drugs

This chapter talks about the enantiospecificity of pheromones, sweeteners, fragrances, and drugs. Pheromones are chemicals released by animals and insects to elicit a behavioral response or activity in others of the same species. Many pheromones elicit increased activity by one enantiomer relative to the other. The L,L-dipeptide aspartame, the well-known artificial sweetener, is composed of phenylalanine and aspartic acid, while its enantiomer, prepared from the corresponding D-amino acids, is tasteless. A pleasant fresh citrus, orange-like aroma is perceived from (R)-limonene, which is a major component of the oil extracted from citrus rinds, while the (S)-enantiomer produces a turpentine-like odor. The (R)-(-)-enantiomer has spearmint fragrance, while (S)-(+)-carvone smells like caraway. The chapter discusses the historical aspects of the development, adverse effects, and treatments using thalidomide. Finally, it analyses the performance of clinical trials (I, II, and III) under the supervision of qualified physicians.