Page 32 - Phytochemistry 2 (06-PG 605)

Chemically,Taxol is a member of small group of compounds having four-
membered oxetane ring and a complex side chain in their structures, both of
which are essential for anti-tumor activity.

Only very small amounts are obtained. The amount isolated from 3 mature 100
years old trees is required for treatment of only one cancer-patient.

Trials are now carried for the production of taxol by:
• Total synthesis, or partial synthesis.
• Isolation from other organs of the plant e.g. leaves.
• Plant cell culture procedures and biotransformation.
• Semi-synthesis from other taxane derivatives such as 10-deacetylbaccatin III.
Action and Uses:

Taxol® (Paclitaxel) is being used clinically in the treatment of ovarian cancers,
breast cancers and non-small cell lung cancer.
Taxol is given by I.V infusion,
it is irritant, causes inflammation of the vein through which it is given, if the
medication escapes from the vein it can causes tissue damage.

Pyridine alkaloids

_
COO

1-Trigonelline +
N

Me
Trigonelline

Source:

Trigonelline occurs in
 the seeds of foenugreek family Leguminosae
 Coffea arabica, family Rubiaceae and
 Strophanthus species, family Apocynaceae.

Uses:

Hypoglycemic in diabetic patients

2- Tobacco Alkaloids

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