Furoquinoline Alkaloids: Insights into Chemistry, Occurrence, and Biological Properties

Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Aug 15;24(16):12811. doi: 10.3390/ijms241612811.

Abstract

Furoquinoline alkaloids exhibit a diverse range of effects, making them potential candidates for medicinal applications. Several compounds within this group have demonstrated antimicrobial and antiprotozoal properties. Of great interest is their potential as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and anti-inflammatory agents in neurodegenerative diseases. The promising biological properties of furoquinoline alkaloids have motivated extensive research in this field. As a result, new compounds have been isolated from this group of secondary metabolites, and numerous pharmacological studies have been conducted to investigate their activity. It is crucial to understand the mechanisms of action of furoquinoline alkaloids due to their potential toxicity. Further research is required to elucidate their mechanisms of action and metabolism. Additionally, the exploration of derivative compounds holds significant potential in enhancing their pharmacological benefits. In vitro plant cultures offer an alternative approach to obtaining alkaloids from plant material, presenting a promising avenue for future investigations.

Keywords: Rutaceae; bioactivity; furoquinoline alkaloids; plant biotechnology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acetylcholinesterase*
  • Alkaloids* / pharmacology
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Radiopharmaceuticals

Substances

  • Acetylcholinesterase
  • Alkaloids
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Radiopharmaceuticals

Grants and funding

The research was realized as a part of the research project N42/DBS/000272, supported by the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education.