Abstract
The chapter discusses the biochemistry of ergot alkaloids, its achievements, and challenges and gives a clear picture of the current knowledge of the formation of ergot alkaloids in nature. It covers the biotechnological aspects and some current trends in ergot alkaloid pharmacology. Ergot alkaloids comprise a group of indole alkaloids that are predominantly found in various species of the ascomycete Claviceps. Some general information on ergot alkaloids and new alkaloids that were isolated during 1989 is summarized in the chapter. Ergot alkaloids are 3,4-substituted indole derivatives. An essential structural element of ergot alkaloids is the tetracyclic ergoline ring system. The chapter discusses methods for the commercial production of medicinally important ergot alkaloids that include isolation from sclerotia of C. purpurea, extraction from saprophytic cultures of different Claviceps species, mainly C. purpurea, C. paspali, and C. fusiformis, and partial synthesis.
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