The iboga enigma: the chemistry and neuropharmacology of iboga alkaloids and related analogs.
Natural product reports – March 04, 2021
Source: PubMed
Summary
The natural compound ibogaine, known for its anti-addiction potential, is at the forefront of new treatments. Recent advances in understanding the complex chemistry and pharmacology of iboga alkaloids are revealing their promise. Scientists are developing innovative synthesis methods, leading to next-generation neurotherapeutics that offer hope for various mental illness conditions.
Abstract
Covering: 2000 up to 2020 Few classes of natural products have inspired as many chemists and biologists as have the iboga alkaloids. This family of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids includes the anti-addictive compound ibogaine as well as catharanthine, a precursor to the chemotherapeutic vinblastine. Despite being known for over 120 years, these small molecules continue to challenge our assumptions about biosynthetic pathways, catalyze our creativity for constructing complex architectures, and embolden new approaches for treating mental illness. This review will cover recent advances in both the biosynthesis and chemical synthesis of iboga alkaloids as well as their use as next-generation neurotherapeutics. Whenever appropriate, we provide historical context for the discoveries of the past decade and indicate areas that have yet to be resolved. While significant progress regarding their chemistry and pharmacology has been made since the 1960s, it is clear that the iboga alkaloids will continue to stoke scientific innovation for years to come.