Natural products are organic compounds that produced naturally by any organism. Natural products can be classified according to their biological function, biosynthetic pathway, or source. There are two major categories, primary and secondary metabolites. Primary metabolites are compounds present in all cells and are essential to the survival and reproduction of the organisms that produce them, including fatty acids, nucleic acids, amino acids, and carbohydrates. In contrast, secondary metabolites are organic molecules have biological effects both within the organisms and on other organisms. Secondary metabolites are not necessary for survival, but increase the competitiveness of the organism in its environment. They may be attractants, pheromones, antifeedants and defensive substances and play an ecological role in regulating interactions between insects, microorganisms, plants, and animals.
The secondary metabolites of plants are also known as phytochemicals. Secondary metabolites exhibit a variety of bioactivities and many of them are of considerable pharmaceutical importance. Before the rise of the modern chemical pharmacology, natural products have been used as components of traditional medicines, such as Indian Ayurveda, traditional Chinese Medicine, and African traditional medicines. Phytochemical compositions that have therapeutic effects represent medicinal value of the natural plants. Many phytochemicals become one of the most important resources for developing new lead compounds and scaffolds in modern pharmacology, such as Paclitaxel, an important anticancer drug, and Resveratrol, an anticancer, anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic drug. Tannins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids are important classifications of phytochemicals.
Amerigo Scientific offers high purity natural products, including phytochemicals, chalcones, alkaloids, caffeoylquinic acids, coumarins, terpenes and steroids. Our products can be used in research, development, regulatory and testing in the fields of biology, metabolomics, agronomy, crop protection, nutrition, nutraceuticals, food and feed, flavour and fragrance, cosmetics, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals.
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