Plant Secondary Metabolites

Question 1

Plant secondary metabolites, general description of alkaloids

Answer 1

Diverse group of nitrogen containing molecules with low molecular weights. Synthesised from amino acids. Potent biological activity. Stimulants, narcotics and poisons.

Question 2

5 chemical classes of alkaloids. Classified according to the ring structure.

Answer 2

1. Terpenoid insole alkaloids.
2. Isoquinoline alkaloids
3. Tropane alkaloids
4. Pyrolizidine alkaloids
5. Purine

Question 3

Terpenoid insole alkaloids are synthesised from:

Answer 3

Tryptophan.