Page 78 - Phytochemistry 2 (06-PG 605)

NH
N

Rauwolfia and Yohimbe alkaloids
(Tryptophan with two prenyl moiety)

Ergot alkaloids
For medicinal purposes, the drug is produced through
controlled cultivation of the fungus on cultivated rye.
The drug has long been used in medicine, on account of its
action on the uterus and vasomotor center.

As the fungus can also grow on other cereal species it
can lead to serious intoxication (Ergotism). Many incidences of
such intoxication (due to consumption of ergot-contaminated
wheat, barley or rice) have been reported in several European
countries. In some cases, this occurred as wide outbreaks that
affect considerable number of people.

An outbreak of intoxication has been reported in Egypt, and
was owed to ergot-contaminated wheat flour.

Ergot alkaloids are classified into two main structural types:
A - The clavine type alkaloids; which are simple ergane derivatives

(tryptophan– derived tetracyclic system); with no carboxylic
group at C8 (i.e. they are not lysergic acid derivatives).

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