Rhynchophylline

Rhynchophylline is an alkaloid found in certain Uncaria species (Rubiaceae), particularly Uncaria rhynchophylla and Uncaria tomentosa. It also occurs in the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, a tree native to Thailand. Rhynchophylline is a non-competitive NMDA antagonist (IC50 = 33.2 µM) and a calcium channel blocker, and has antioxidant and vasodilating effects. It has potential for treatment of Alzheimer's disease and opiate addiction.

Chemistry

Rhynchophylline is a tetracyclic oxindole alkaloid. It is structurally related to other plant alkaloids such as Mitraphylline and Isomitraphylline.

Pharmacology

Rhynchophylline has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of disorders of the nervous system. Its NMDA antagonist activity has led to research on its potential use in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. It has also been studied for its potential use in the treatment of drug addiction, due to its ability to inhibit the release of dopamine.

Toxicity

The toxicity of rhynchophylline is low. However, it can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting in high doses.

See also

• Uncaria rhynchophylla
• Uncaria tomentosa
• Mitragyna speciosa
• Alkaloid
• NMDA antagonist

External links

• PubChem Compound Summary for CID 441935
• Rhynchophylline: a potential natural therapeutic agent in Alzheimer's disease
• Rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline inhibit NMDA receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes

• Rhynchophylline
  Rhynchophylline