Pyrrolizidine alkaloids
- Pronunciation
- /PYEER-oh-liz-i-deen AL-kuh-LOIDS/
- Category
- Chemical compounds
- Singular
- Pyrrolizidine alkaloid
- Plural
- Pyrrolizidine alkaloids
Definition
A class of naturally occurring nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds found primarily in plants of the families *Asteraceae*, *Boraginaceae*, and *Fabaceae*. They are toxic to vertebrates and insects.
Etymology
Named after the pyrrole ring structure present in the molecule.
Example
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are sequestered by some butterflies and moths, providing them with defense against predators.
Related Terms
- Plants
- Toxicity
- Defense mechanisms
- Lepidoptera
Usage Notes
Some pyrrolizidine alkaloids are known to be carcinogenic in vertebrates.