Coptisine

Coptisine

Coptisine is an isoquinoline alkaloid found in several plant species, most notably in the Ranunculaceae family. It is a yellow crystalline substance with a bitter taste and is known for its various pharmacological properties.

Chemical Structure

Coptisine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, which means it has a chemical structure derived from two molecules of tyrosine, an amino acid. Its chemical formula is C19H14NO4+ and its structure includes a quaternary carbon atom, which gives it a positive charge.

Sources

Coptisine is found in several plant species, particularly those in the Ranunculaceae family. These include Coptis chinensis (Chinese goldthread), Coptis japonica (Japanese goldthread), and Coptis teeta (Indian goldthread). It is also found in Berberis species and Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal).

Pharmacological Properties

Coptisine has been studied for its potential pharmacological properties. It has been found to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. It has also been shown to have potential benefits for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of coptisine have been studied in animals and humans. It is absorbed rapidly after oral administration and is distributed widely in the body. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.

Safety and Toxicity

Coptisine is generally considered safe at therapeutic doses. However, high doses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. It can also cause hypotension (low blood pressure) and bradycardia (slow heart rate).

Research

Research on coptisine is ongoing, with studies investigating its potential uses in treating various diseases and conditions. These include cancer, inflammation, bacterial infections, and metabolic disorders.

See Also

• Berberine
• Isoquinoline
• Pharmacokinetics
• Pharmacology