A lipoxygenase-divinyl ether synthase pathway in flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) leaves

Flax leaf cell-free preparations possess lipoxygenase and divinyl ether synthase activities. Linoleic or α-linolenic acid (as well as their 13-hydroperoxides) are converted by these enzymes into divinyl ethers (ω5Z)-etheroleic and (ω5Z)-etherolenic acids, respectively. Identification of both divinyl ethers was substantiated by their UV, mass-, 1H NMR and COSY spectral data.