Tabernaemontana Species: Promising Sources of New Useful Drugs

The Secretory Apparatus of Tabernaemontana ventricosa Hochst. ex A.DC. (Apocynaceae): Laticifer Identification, Characterization and Distribution

“…The histochemical analysis of the laticifers and latex within the vegetative organs of T. ventricosa revealed for the first time in this species the presence of carboxylated polysaccharides ( Figure 7 a and Figure 8 a), lipophilic and hydrophilic substances ( Figure 7 b and Figure 8 b), proteins ( Figure 7 i and Figure 8 l), phenolics ( Figure 7 e and Figure 8 i), terpenoids ( Figure 7 d and Figure 8 d), neutral lipids ( Figure 7 g and Figure 8 h), alkaloids ( Figure 7 j and Figure 8 e), mucilage and pectin ( Figure 7 k and Figure 8 f), resin acids ( Figure 7 f and Figure 8 g), and acidic substances ( Figure 7 l and Figure 8 j). These findings are consistent with previous studies, as the compounds within the laticifers and latex were previously detected in species belonging to the genus Tabernaemontana and may be of therapeutic and pharmacological importance [ 42 , 43 , 44 , 45 , 46 , 47 ]. Furthermore, regarding the chemical constituents detected within leaf and stem sections of T. ventricosa , studies have shown a possible association between the secondary metabolites of latex and defense mechanisms against pathogens and herbivores [ 13 , 15 , 16 , 20 , 27 , 48 , 49 ].…”

“…Moreover, previous reports on Tabernaemontana species showed that the alkaloids dregamine and voacangine isolated from T. elegans and indole alkaloids found in T. catharinensis exhibited substantial anti-bacterial activity and have medicinal value [ 47 , 50 ]. It has been observed that plants within the genus Tabernaemontana often obtain a profusely high alkaloid content, usually displaying biological activity [ 42 , 45 ]. According to Van Beek et al (1984), alkaloids are organic nitrogenous compounds with the nitrogen being either in its primary, secondary, or tertiary form [ 43 ].…”

“…According to Van Beek et al (1984), alkaloids are organic nitrogenous compounds with the nitrogen being either in its primary, secondary, or tertiary form [ 43 ]. Additionally, monoterpene indole and bisindole alkaloids are the major classes of alkaloids within the Tabernaemontana genus, other compounds include terpenes, lactones, steroids, phenolics, and flavonoids [ 42 , 43 , 44 , 45 ]. A few of the latter compounds, namely alkaloids ( Figure 7 j and Figure 8 e), terpenoids ( Figure 7 d and Figure 8 d) and phenolics ( Figure 7 e and Figure 8 i) have been observed in the current study.…”

Major Bioactive Alkaloids and Biological Activities of Tabernaemontana Species (Apocynaceae)

“…Therefore, antioxidants are suggested to decrease oxidative stress, improve immune function, and increase healthy longevity [76][77][78]. Several factors can alter the antioxidant capacity of a certain species; these include the rate of reaction between the samples and the reactive species and the concentration ratio between the antioxidant and the target [2]. There are multiple methods used to determine the antioxidant activity of plant species; however, various methods may result in variation of the results [79].…”

Precursor-directed Biosynthesis in Tabernaemontana catharinensis as a New Avenue for Alzheimerʼs Disease-modifying Agents

“…Plants produce a high diversity of metabolites that can act as a regulator of the cholinergic dysfunction [14][15][16]. Among plants with therapeutic potential, the species of the genus Tabernaemontana (Apocynaceae) are widely used in traditional medicine due to several biological activities, including its neuropharmacological action [17]. The iboga-type alkaloids found in the genus Tabernaemontana have great potential as AChE inhibitors and can be significant compounds in the study of biochemical interactions involving cholinesterases [18].…”