Evaluation of Anti-Microbial Potential of Structurally Modified Derivatives of Lead Compound Berberine Isolated From Roots of Berberis Aristata

Abstract

The alkaloid berberine, the chief constituent of Berberis aristata, has been reported to have antimicrobial activity associated with it. Structural changes can be made to this lead compound to try to improve its effi cacy in terms of antimicrobial activity. In the present study, attempts have been made to evaluate anti-microbial potential of structurally modifi ed derivatives of berberine. The derivatives so synthesized were characterized on the basis of spectral techniques like 1H,13C NMR, UV, IR and MASS and by comparison with standard berberine. Structure-activity relationship studies revealed that methoxyl group is pharmacophore of berberine and is thus needed to be retained in the skeleton. Further incorporation of the electron-withdrawing group has pronounced effect on the antimicrobial activity. Further attempts could be made to extend the series with the incorporation of such electron-withdrawing groups to get potent antimicrobial agents.