Alkaloids
Alkaloids
Alkaloids (/ælˈkælɔɪdz/) are a class of naturally occurring organic compounds that mostly contain basic nitrogen atoms. This group also includes some related compounds with neutral and even weakly acidic properties. Some synthetic compounds of similar structure may also be termed alkaloids.
Etymology
The term "alkaloid" (alkali-like) is derived from the Arabic word alkali, which means "the ashes of plants". It was first used by the German chemist Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Meißner in 1819.
Types of Alkaloids
There are several types of alkaloids, including:
- Tropane Alkaloids - These are derived from ornithine, a type of amino acid. Examples include atropine and cocaine.
- Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids - These are derived from ornithine or arginine. Examples include retronecine and heliotridine.
- Isoquinoline Alkaloids - These are derived from tyrosine. Examples include morphine and codeine.
- Indole Alkaloids - These are derived from tryptophan. Examples include strychnine and quinine.
Related Terms
- Amino Acids - These are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. Alkaloids are often derived from amino acids.
- Organic Compounds - These are compounds that contain carbon atoms. Alkaloids are a type of organic compound.
- Nitrogen Atoms - These are atoms that have seven protons in their nucleus. Alkaloids contain basic nitrogen atoms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alkaloids
- Wikipedia's article - Alkaloids
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