Alkaloids

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingEntry for encyclopedia/dictionarypeer-review

Abstract

Alkaloids are complex organic molecules containing a heterocyclic nitrogen ring, which have been widely exploited for their diverse pharmacological properties. Although alkaloids are found in many different organisms, including animals and microbes, the higher plants contain a particularly diverse array of these compounds. Some alkaloids are directly beneficial for medicinal applications, while others are toxic and potentially dangerous to humans. Efforts are now underway to create new varieties of plants and microbes that are able to safely produce high levels of useful alkaloids at low cost for medical uses.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEncyclopedia of Applied Plant Sciences
EditorsBrian Thomas, Brian G. Murray, Denis J. Murphy
PublisherElsevier
Pages118-124
Volume2
Edition2nd
ISBN (Print)978-0-12-394808-3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017

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