Drugs of Natural Origin

Drugs of Natural Origin is a unique multidisciplinary book suitable for undergraduate and graduate students and teachers in the area of natural product science, but also as a complementary book for disciplines like medicinal chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacology. The book can also serve society as a scientific source for the understanding of a sustainable use of natural products in the development of new drugs, scientifically based herbal remedies, and environmentally friendly biomolecules.During evolution, molecules have been developed for specific functions in nature. These bioactive substances have a potential as new drug candidates in drug development, but also as pharmacological tools, intermediates or templates for synthesis of drugs. This book deals with terrestrial and marine bioactive substances of plant, microbial or animal origin. The occurrence, biosynthesis, isolation, chemistry and medical use are described together with basic research strategies. An increased