The biosynthesis of hydroxycinnamoyl quinate esters and their role in the storage of cocaine in Erythroxylum coca

► Tropane alkaloids accumulate in the young leaves of Erythroxylum coca. ► Hydroxycinnamoyl quinate ester levels are correlated with tropane alkaloids. ► Hydroxycinnamoyl quinate esters are made by the BAHD acyltransferase EcHQT. ► Complexation of chlorogenic acid and cocaine can be observed in vitro.