Dimeric pyrrole-imidazole alkaloids: sources, structures, bioactivities and biosynthesis

Area of Science:

• Marine Natural Products Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Pyrrole-imidazole alkaloids (PIAs) are a diverse group of marine natural products.
• Dimeric PIAs are particularly noted for their complex molecular architectures and biological significance.
• These compounds have attracted substantial interest from chemists and biologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review dimeric PIAs discovered between 1981 and September 2022.
• To summarize their source organisms, chemical structures, biological activities, and biosynthesis.
• To classify these compounds based on carbon skeleton features and biosynthetic pathways.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications from 1981 to September 2022.
• Systematic compilation and analysis of data on 84 dimeric PIAs.
• Classification of compounds based on structural and biosynthetic criteria.

Main Results:

• A total of 84 dimeric PIAs were identified and reviewed.
• Detailed information on source organisms, chemical structures, and bioactivities is presented.
• Classification schemes based on carbon skeletons and biosynthesis pathways were established.

Conclusions:

• The review provides a thorough overview of dimeric PIAs, highlighting their chemical diversity and biological relevance.
• Understanding their classification and biosynthesis is crucial for future research.
• This work serves as a valuable resource for researchers in natural products chemistry and marine biology.