Plant Metabolism Flashcards
What is secondary metabolism?
metabolism of chemicals that occurs rarely among plants, and that have no known general metabolic role in plants.
What are secondary metabolites?
compounds that are not required for normal growth
How are secondary metabolites divided?
By structure, biosynthetic pathway, the kinds of plants that make them
What are glycosides?
A molecule that is the product of a secondary metabolite combining with sugar
If secondary metabolites don’t help a plant with growth, what are they for?
They govern interactions between plants and other organisms. Ex: some secondary compounds are brightly coloured pigments. These attract pollinators and fruit and seed dispersers.
What are the categories of compounds?
Alkaloids, glycosides, essential oils
What are common characteristics of alkaloid compounds?
they contain nitrogen, they are usually alkaline, they have a bitter taste
What are the physiological effects of alkaloids?
A pronounced effect on the nervous system. Common alkaloids are caffeine, nicotine, cocaine, morphine, quinine, ephedrine
What are the positives of glycosides?
Can be a great medicine for a wide range of conditions
What are the negatives of glycosides?
They are extremely toxic and dangerous when dosage isn’t administered properly
What is the plant ‘foxglove’ used for and what are its effects?
Foxglove is used to treat heart disease because it has a high amount of cardiac glycosides. The effects increases strength of each heartbeat, more blood is pumped, Improved circulation
What is Willow bark used for and what are its effects?
It is used to treat pain and fever. Willow bark is now called aspirin and it is anti-inflammatory, antipyretic (fever reducing), and analgesic (pain relieving).
What is fever bark used for and what are its effects?
Fever bark is used to treat malaria, it has the name quinine. It kills parasites in the bloodstream and works well to stop infections
What is snakeroot and what are its effects?
It is an effective tranquilizer that lowers blood pressure.
What is aloe Vera and what are its effects?
Aloe leaves have a thick sap that promotes faster cell growth, inhibits pain, itching, and bacterial infections. It is commonly used to treat burns and other skin conditions