Neuronal signal transduction alkaloids molecular targets

Tab. 1.1 Molecular targets of alkaloids in neuronal signal transduction [2,3,19].

Alkaloids have evolved in plants as powerful defence compounds against herbivores. Although many of them interfere with neuroreceptors and neuronal signal transduction, several others have cytotoxic properties, directed against animal and microbial cells. The present review has tried to summarize some of the molecular targets that are involved in this process. Alkaloids that interfere with microtubules, with DNA (intercalation, topoisomerase inhibition), with protein biosynthesis, and with membrane stability, apparently induce apoptosis, thus leading to cell death. It is very likely however, that many more targets exist that have not been detected, or are not yet correctly understood in this context. 

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