Alkaloids derived by amination reaction: Acetate-derived (coniine)

Abstract

This chapter is intended to be a presentation of alkaloids derived by amination reaction (acetate derived) from chemical, biological, and ecological points of view. The phytochemistry, isolation, biosynthesis, and biological activities of these alkaloids are described. The acetate-derived alkaloids (coniine) contained mainly in the plant poison hemlock (Conium maculatum); therefore, some of the botanical characteristics of this plant are mentioned. It is, however, pertinent to mention at this juncture that the enormous volume of authentic information accumulated so far with regard to the isolation of alkaloids from a variety of plant species and their subsequent characterization by the help of latest analytical techniques they may be classified as alkaloids derived from amination reactions. These include: (a) Acetate-derived alkaloids (b) Phenylalanine-derived alkaloids (c) Terpenoid alkaloids (d) Steroidal alkaloids.