Alkaloids unveiled: A comprehensive analysis of novel therapeutic properties, mechanisms, and plant-based innovations

Abstract

Alkaloids, naturally occurring compounds in a diverse range of plant species (Coffea spp., Erythroxylum coca, Cinchona spp. etc.), hold vast potential for biological, medicinal, and pharmacological applications. As the global focus shifts towards natural therapeutic agents due to their lower toxicity compared to synthetic compounds, this review takes a novel approach by examining the ecological and molecular factors influencing the medicinal properties of alkaloids. Using a comparative analysis of alkaloid potency across various plant species, we explore how environmental factors, such as soil composition and climate, impact alkaloid concentration and efficacy. Additionally, this review highlights the synergistic potential of alkaloids when combined with other phytochemicals, offering new insights into more potent, multi-compound therapeutic formulations. We documented ten key medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects, and delve into the molecular pathways through which alkaloids exert these benefits. By exploring alkaloids from under-researched plant species, we aim to broaden the scope of medicinal applications, particularly within the realm of personalized medicine, where alkaloid efficacy may vary based on genetic and pathological factors. This novel perspective emphasized the need for further research to optimize alkaloid extraction methods and assess their potential in personalized and combination therapies, ultimately paving the way for more effective natural treatments.