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Related Concept Videos

Cycloalkanes02:28

Cycloalkanes

Cycloalkanes are saturated cyclic hydrocarbons with carbon atoms arranged in the form of rings. They have two fewer hydrogen atoms than the corresponding acyclic alkane; therefore, their general formula is CnH2n. The structural formulas of cycloalkanes are simplified using the line-angle representation. The regular polygons are used to represent the cycloalkane rings, with each side representing a carbon-carbon bond.
The IUPAC nomenclature of cycloalkanes follows similar rules that apply to...
Cyclohexenones via Michael Addition and Aldol Condensation: The Robinson Annulation01:27

Cyclohexenones via Michael Addition and Aldol Condensation: The Robinson Annulation

Robinson annulation is a base-catalyzed reaction for the synthesis of 2-cyclohexenone derivatives from 1,3-dicarbonyl donors (such as cyclic diketones, β-ketoesters, or β-diketones) and α,β-unsaturated carbonyl acceptors. Named after Sir Robert Robinson, who discovered it, this reaction yields a six-membered ring with three new C–C bonds (two σ bonds and one π bond).
Cycloaddition Reactions: MO Requirements for Photochemical Activation01:12

Cycloaddition Reactions: MO Requirements for Photochemical Activation

Some cycloaddition reactions are activated by heat, while others are initiated by light. For example, a [2 + 2] cycloaddition between two ethylene molecules occurs only in the presence of light. It is photochemically allowed but thermally forbidden.
Drugs that Stabilize Microtubules01:15

Drugs that Stabilize Microtubules

Microtubules are dynamic structures that undergo cycles of catastrophe and rescue. The microtubules play a central role in cell division by forming the spindle apparatus for segregating the chromosomes. This makes them ideal targets for regulating dividing cells in tumors and malignant cancer cells. Microtubule stabilizing drugs help stabilize the microtubule formation and promote its polymerization. Paclitaxel was the first microtubule stabilizing agent used as anticancer drug in chemotherapy...
Drugs that Destabilize Microtubules01:10

Drugs that Destabilize Microtubules

Microtubules are dynamic structures and can be regulated by microtubule targeting agents (MTAs). Microtubule destabilizing drugs are a class of MTAs that destabilize and prevent microtubules' polymerization. Both natural and synthetic chemicals can be found under this class of drugs. Vincristine and vinblastine, two vinca alkaloids, and colchicine were among the first to be discovered. These drugs can affect cells in various ways, either by inducing a change in cell morphology, preventing...
Cycloaddition Reactions: MO Requirements for Thermal Activation01:16

Cycloaddition Reactions: MO Requirements for Thermal Activation

Thermal cycloadditions are reactions where the source of activation energy needed to initiate the reaction is provided in the form of heat. A typical example of a thermally-allowed cycloaddition is the Diels–Alder reaction, which is a [4 + 2] cycloaddition. In contrast, a [2 + 2] cycloaddition is thermally forbidden.

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Applications of Liquid-Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry in Natural Products Research: Tropane Alkaloids as a Case Study
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Applications of Liquid-Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry in Natural Products Research: Tropane Alkaloids as a Case Study

Published on: March 8, 2024

Bioactive cyclobutane-containing alkaloids.

Valery M Dembitsky1

  • 1Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, P.O. Box 12065, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel. dvalery@cc.huji.ac.il

Journal of Natural Medicines
|April 12, 2008
PubMed
Summary

This review covers novel cyclobutane alkaloids from nature and synthetic analogs. These compounds exhibit significant antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anticancer activities, highlighting their therapeutic potential.

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Published on: January 21, 2020

Area of Science:

  • Natural Product Chemistry
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry

Background:

  • Cyclobutane-containing alkaloids represent a unique structural class found in various natural sources.
  • These compounds have garnered interest due to their diverse biological properties.
  • Research has focused on isolating and characterizing these natural products and their synthetic counterparts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review novel natural cyclobutane-containing alkaloids and synthetic analogs.
  • To summarize their origins, biosynthesis, and structural characteristics.
  • To provide an overview of their documented biological activities.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on natural and synthetic cyclobutane-containing compounds.
  • Analysis of structural data, isolation methods, and biosynthesis pathways.
  • Compilation of reported biological activities, including antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anticancer effects.

Main Results:

  • Over 210 cyclobutane-containing compounds have been identified from terrestrial and marine species.
  • These compounds demonstrate a range of biological activities, notably antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anticancer properties.
  • The review covers structural elucidation, biosynthesis, and photodimerization aspects.

Conclusions:

  • Cyclobutane-containing alkaloids are a promising source of novel bioactive molecules.
  • Further research into these compounds could lead to the development of new therapeutic agents.
  • Understanding their biosynthesis and structure-activity relationships is crucial for drug discovery.