The Genus Melodinus (Apocynaceae): Chemical and Pharmacological Perspectives

Yao Lu,T J Khoo,C Wiart

doi:10.4236/pp.2014.55064

Yao Lu, T J Khoo + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.4236/pp.2014.55064

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Abstract

The plants of the genus Melodinus (Apocynaceae) are widely distributed, and have long been used in folk medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as meningitis in children and rheumatic heart diseases, hernia, infantile malnutrition, dyspepsia and testitis. Over 100 alkaloids together with flavonoids, lignans, steroids, terpenoids and coumarins have been identified in the genus, and many of these have been evaluated for biological activity. This review presents comprehensive information on the chemistry and pharmacology of the genus together with the traditional uses of many of its plants. In addition, this review discusses the structure-activity relationship of different compounds as well as recent developments and the scope for future research in this aspect.

Highlights

IntroductionGenus Melodinus The genus Melodinus belongs to family Apocynaceae, a large family of a family of flowering plants that includes trees, shrubs, herbs, stem succulents, and vines, commonly called the dogbane family [1]
Antitumor potential was demonstrated by the indole alkaloids from the leaves and twigs of Melodinus fusiformis and Melodinus tenuicaudatus via the MTT biological assay showed significant cytotoxicity against five human tumor cell lines: SW480, SMMC-7721, HL-60, MCF-7 and A-549 [17] [18]
A broad field of future research remains possible in which the isolation of new active principles from these species would be of great scientific merit

Summary

Introduction

Genus Melodinus The genus Melodinus belongs to family Apocynaceae, a large family of a family of flowering plants that includes trees, shrubs, herbs, stem succulents, and vines, commonly called the dogbane family [1]. The family comprises some 1500 species divided over about 424 genera. The former family Asclepiadaceae is included in Apocynaceae according to the APG III system [2]. Some are sources of important drugs, such as cardiac glycosides, which affect heart function [5]. These include the Acokanthera, Apocynum, Cerbera, Nerium, Thevetia and Strophantus. Melodinus clade embraces 109 species which are mainly found in tropical Asia and Oceania [8]

Botanical Features of Melodinus

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

Chemical Constituents

Biological Activities

Future Perspectives and Conclusions