Synthesis and modification of noscapine derivatives as promising future anticancer agents.

Noscapine, a tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid, was first isolated from Papaver somniferum and identified by Rabiquet in 1817. It has been used as an anti-tussive agent since the mid-1950 s. After the discovery of its anti-mitotic potential, it was into the limelight once again.

Synthesis and Modification of Morphine and Codeine, Leading to Diverse Libraries with Improved Pain Relief Properties.

Morphine and codeine, two of the most common opioids, are widely used in the clinic for different types of pain. Morphine is one of the most potent agonists for the -opioid receptor, leading to the strongest analgesic effect. However, due to their association with serious side effects such as respiratory depression, constriction, euphoria, and addiction, it is necessary for derivatives of morphine and codeine to be developed to overcome such drawbacks.