Chemical constituents from the rhizome of Menispermum dauricum DC. and their chemotaxonomic significance

Research Progress on Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities of Menispermi Rhizoma

Menispermi Rhizoma, the rhizome of Menispermum dauricum DC., is a traditional Chinese medicine, which has the effect of clearing away heat and detoxification, dispelling wind, and relieving pain. It is often used in the treatment of sore throat, enteritis, dysentery, and rheumatism. The chemical constituents of M. Rhizoma mainly include alkaloids, phenolic acids, quinones, cardiotonic glycosides, and so on. Modern pharmacological studies have proved that M. Rhizoma has the effects of anti-tumour, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, bacteriostasis, cardio-cerebrovascular protection, anti-depression and anti-Alzheimer’s disease. In recent years, the chemical constituents of M. Rhizoma have been found continuously, and the pharmacological studies have deepened gradually. This paper reviews the research progress on the chemical composition and pharmacological effects of M. Rhizoma, to provide a basis for further research and development of its medicinal value.

A novel oxoisoaporphine-type alkaloid from the rhizome of Menispermum dauricum

A phytochemical investigation of Menispermum dauricum led to the isolation of five oxoisoaporphine-type alkaloids (1-5) and five aporphine-type alkaloids (6-10), including a novel oxoisoaporphine-type alkaloid: menispeimin A (1). Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic studies including MS, 1 D and 2 D NMR, and confirmed by comparing with literature data. Among them, alkaloids 4-10 were obtained for the first time from Menispermum genus. Natural products 2, 4 and 6 exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against A549, Bel-7402 and MCF-7 cell lines.