Maurice-Marie Janot

Mass spectrometry in structural and stereochemical problems—XIX : Akuammicine and related alkaloids☆

Abstract The mass spectral fragmentation patterns of akuammicine, dihydroakuammicine, tetra- hydroakuammicine and many of their relatives are summarized in the terms of the most characteristic mass spectral peaks. Plausible mechanism can be postulate in most instances for these ions and attention is called to the use of this information in the structure elucidation of alkaloids with a 2-methyleneindoline (I) chromophore.

Mass spectrometry in structural and Stereochemical problems—XXXVI : Alkaloids of periwinkles—27; the mass spectra of stereo-isomers of the sarpagine-akuammidine group

Abstract Mass spectra have been measured of members of the sarpagine-akuammidine group differing in stereochemistry at C-16. Attention is called to possible fallacies in expecting analogous fragmentation behavior of closely related compounds (N (a) —H vs. N (a) —Me) if the mechanism of a specific fragmentation is not known. Attention is drawn to the structural information which can be gained from thermal decomposition processes prior to electron impact. The mutual advantages of an all-glass and a direct inlet system are discussed.

Chapter 24 The Ipecac Alkaloids

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the ipecac alkaloids. Ipecac root has been used in therapy since the beginning of the XVIIth century as an emetic and expectorant; its use against dysentery, already recommended by Helvetius in the eighteenth century, was found to be therapeutically correct in 1912, when emetine, the most important of its alkaloids, was successfully used by L. Rogers in the treatment of amebic dysentery. This very important application has stimulated many investigations of Ipecac root and has shown emetine to be an almost indispensable alkaloid. Two kinds of Ipecac from which the alkaloids, and in particular emetine, can be extracted are important in commerce, namely. Trading in Ipecac has practically become a monopoly of Brazil, and since there are many adulterations on the market it is important to use only authentic raw materials, with a guaranteed content of alkaloids, not less than 2%, which is demanded by most pharmacopoeias.