Lamellarin alkaloids: Isolation, synthesis, and biological activity

Area of Science:

• Marine Natural Products Chemistry
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Organic Synthesis

Background:

• Lamellarins are marine alkaloids characterized by specific fused or non-fused ring systems.
• Over 50 lamellarins have been identified in marine organisms including mollusks, tunicates, and sponges.
• Certain lamellarins, particularly fused type I, display significant biological activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive and updated review of lamellarin alkaloids.
• To summarize the isolation, synthesis, and biological activities of lamellarins.
• To address the challenges posed by limited natural sources for these compounds.

Main Methods:

• Review of published literature on lamellarin isolation from marine sources.
• Compilation of reported synthetic methodologies for lamellarin compounds.
• Summary of documented biological activities, including cytotoxicity and enzyme inhibition.

Main Results:

• Detailed overview of more than 50 identified lamellarins and their natural origins.
• Highlighting of potent bioactivities such as cytotoxicity, topoisomerase I inhibition, protein kinases inhibition, and anti-HIV-1 activity.
• Discussion of various synthetic strategies developed to overcome natural supply limitations.

Conclusions:

• Lamellarins represent a promising class of marine natural products with diverse and potent bioactivities.
• Synthetic approaches are crucial for ensuring a sustainable supply of lamellarins for further research and potential therapeutic applications.
• This review consolidates current knowledge, serving as a valuable resource for researchers in marine natural products and medicinal chemistry.