Alkaloids and terpenoids: Synthesis, classification, isolation and purification, reactions, and applications

In the past few decades there has been a tremendous spike in studies pertaining to secondary metabolite research specifically with regard to their prominence as a source of high-value pharmaceuticals. The secondary metabolites are heterogeneous low-molecular-weight products of secondary metabolism with very complex chemical structures and diverse biological functions. These highly complex metabolites are produced by plants and microbes (bacteria and fungi) and are not involved in primary metabolic processes such as growth and reproduction. Based on their chemical structure, synthesis, and functions they have been classified differently by different researchers. This chapter presents a comprehensive overview of alkaloids and terpenoids, especially their classification, isolation, purification, synthesis, and applications.