Biologically active isoquinoline alkaloids covering 2014-2018

Area of Science:

• Medicinal Chemistry
• Natural Products Chemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Isoquinoline alkaloids are N-based heterocyclic compounds with a long history of research.
• Many isolated isoquinoline alkaloids and their analogs demonstrate significant bioactivities.
• Research interest in these compounds spans over two centuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey updated literature on bioactive isoquinoline alkaloids.
• To highlight research achievements in this alkaloid class between 2014 and 2018.
• To identify new directions for drug discovery from natural isoquinoline alkaloids.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications.
• Analysis of over 400 isoquinoline alkaloid molecules.
• Categorization of identified bioactivities.

Main Results:

• A broad spectrum of bioactivities was identified, including antitumor, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, insecticidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects.
• Significant research progress was made between 2014 and 2018.
• Over 400 molecules were reviewed.

Conclusions:

• Isoquinoline alkaloids possess a wide array of therapeutic potentials.
• The findings provide a basis for developing novel drugs from these natural compounds.
• Further research can explore new therapeutic indications for isoquinoline alkaloids.