Component of the volatile terpenes biosynthesis pathways (PubMed:30187155). Sesquiterpene synthase that converts farnesyl diphosphate to (E)-beta-caryophyllene (PubMed:18296628). Involved in indirect defense by producing volatile signals that attract natural enemies of leaf herbivores such as Chilo partellus and root herbivores like the western corn rootworm (WCR, Diabrotica virgifera) and fall armyworm (Spodoptera littoralis and Spodoptera frugiperda) (PubMed:18296628, PubMed:28428873, PubMed:29151152). Deters leaf herbivores by triggering (E)-beta-caryophyllene production upon insect (stemborer C.partellus) egg deposition; (E)-beta-caryophyllene attracts the parasitic wasp Cotesia sesamiae which lays eggs on the larvae of C.partellus, which is ultimately fatal (PubMed:28428873). (2E,6E)-farnesyl diphosphate = (-)-(E)-beta-caryophyllene + diphosphate Binds 3 Mg(2+) or Mn(2+) ions per subunit. kcat is 0.00191 sec(-1) with farnesyl diphosphate (in the presence of MgCl(2)). kcat is 0.0013 sec(-1) with farnesyl diphosphate (in the presence of MnCl(2)). Optimum pH is 8-9.5. Secondary metabolite biosynthesis; terpenoid biosynthesis. Monomer. Expressed in roots and leaves. Induced by Diabrotica virgifera damage in roots and Spodoptera littoralis damage in leaves (PubMed:18296628, PubMed:29151152). Accumulates upon stemborer Chilo partellus eggs deposition in some cultivars (e.g. cv. Braz1006) but less in others (e.g. cv. Delprim and cv. B73) (PubMed:28428873). The Asp-Asp-Xaa-Xaa-Asp/Glu (DDXXD/E) motif is important for the catalytic activity, presumably through binding to Mg(2+). More abundant in insect resistant cultivars (e.g. cv. Mp708) than in insect sensitive cultivars (e.g. cv. Tx601). Belongs to the terpene synthase family. The scent of guile - Issue 216 of August 2019 Lure - Issue 218 of October 2019