An Overview of Chemistry and Bioactivity of Non-diterpenoid Alkaloids in the Genera Aconitum and Delphinium (Ranunculaceae)

Abstract: Tribe Delphineae in the family Ranunculaceae is composed of the genera Aconitum and Delphinium and is a resource plant group with important medicinal value. Alkaloids are the main active ingredients in these two genera, with previous studies primarily focusing on diterpenoid alkaloids. Recent comprehensive studies of the chemical components have uncovered numerous non-diterpenoid alkaloids of diverse structural types, such as amides, isoquinolines, pyridines, phenethylamines, and diazines. These compounds exhibit various biological activities, including cardiotonic, antitumor, and antibacterial effects. In this paper, the structural characteristics and biological activities of 156 non-diterpenoid alkaloids reported in Aconitum and Delphinium are reviewed for the first time to provide references for the efficient utilization of plant resources of these two genera.