Alstonine

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Alstonine is a indole alkaloid that is derived from plants in the Apocynaceae family, specifically the Alstonia genus. It is a naturally occurring compound that has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly in the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.

History[edit | edit source]

Alstonine was first isolated in 1933 from the bark of Alstonia boonei, a tree native to West Africa. The compound was named after the genus Alstonia, which was in turn named after Charles Alston, an 18th-century Scottish botanist.

Chemical Structure[edit | edit source]

Alstonine is a monomeric indole alkaloid with a complex chemical structure. It is composed of three indole units, which are connected by a central quinolizidine ring. The compound also contains several hydroxyl and methoxy groups, which contribute to its chemical properties.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Alstonine has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The compound has been shown to have antipsychotic properties, and it has been suggested as a potential treatment for schizophrenia. Alstonine works by blocking the action of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is thought to be overactive in people with schizophrenia.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research into the potential therapeutic effects of alstonine is ongoing. While the compound has shown promise in preclinical studies, further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Alstonine Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD