Variations in the alkaloidal and phenolic profiles in the genus Atropa (Solanaceae)

Abstract

A chemical comparison between Atropa acuminata and A. Belladonna shows that there are significant differences in the secondary metabolites present. The purple‐black berry pigment of A.acuminata is the anthocyanin delphanin, while that of A. Belladonna is the 0‐methylated derivative, petanin. There are differences in the flavonols and hydroxycinnamic acid esters present, e.g.quercetin 3‐methyl ether is restricted in its occurrence to A.belladonna. Likewise, the amounts of major alkaloids vary greatly, especially in the roots, and the minor alkaloids also differ. The distribution within the plant can also vary: 6‐hydroxyhyoscyamine is present in the stem of A. Acuminata and in the root of A. Belladonna. The chemical results thus suggest that A. Acuminate should be maintained as a species distinct from A.belladonna.

Toxic Potential of Cerrado Plants on Different Organisms

“…Secondary metabolites act on the predators through multiple mechanisms ( Figure 6 ). They can interact specifically or not specifically with proteins (enzymes, receptors, ion channels, and structural proteins), nucleic acids, biomembranes, and other cellular components [ 141 , 142 ]. The interaction with these different targets can disturb the vital components of the cellular-signaling system, resulting in dysregulated essential signaling in the nervous system (e.g., concerning neurotransmitter synthesis, storage, release, binding, re-uptake, receptor activation and function, and enzymes involved in signal transduction) or in interference with vital enzymes and blocking of metabolic pathways [ 143 ].…”