Alkaloids, represent complex chemical compounds, produced by the secondary metabolism of living organisms in different biotopes. This book provides knowledge on structural typology, biosynthesis and metabolism in relation to research on alkaloids, considering an organic chemistry approach to alkaloids using biological and ecological explanation.

It presents the ecological role of alkaloids in nature and ecosystems. It has an interdisciplinary and reader friendly approach and provides up-to-date knowledge.

Chapter 1. Definition, Typology and Occurrence of Alkaloids 1. Definition 2. Occurrence in nature Chapter 2. Alkoloid Chemistry 1. Alkaloids as secondary metabolism molecules 2. Synthesis and metabolism Chapter 3. Biological Significance of Alkaloids 1. Alkaloids in biology 2. Bioactivity 3. Biotoxicity 4. Narcotics 5. Alkaloids in the immune system 6. Genetic approach to alkaloids 7. Alkaloids in the evolution of organisms Chapter 4. Applications 1. Medicinal applications 2. Alkaloids as drugs 3. Agricultural applications 4. Biotechnology Chapter 5. Ecological Role of Alkaloids 1. Animal sequestration of alkaloids 2. Sexual behaviour 3. Feeding atractance and deterrence 4. A case study: Alkaloids and plant population changes