Distribution and biosynthesis of flavan-3-ols in Camellia sinensis seedlings and expression of genes encoding biosynthetic enzymes

The distribution of flavan-3-ols in various parts of Camellia sinensis seedlings was investigated along with the expression of genes encoding enzymes associated with the biosynthesis of flavan-3-ols and related phenolic compounds. The main biosynthetic pathways leading to (−)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate and (−)-epicatechin-3-O-gallate biosynthetic pathways in tea leaves are proposed.