Cytotoxic and Antiviral Compounds from Bryophytes and Inedible Fungi

Abstract

Over several hundred new compounds have been isolated from the bryophytes and more than 40 new carbon skeletal terpenoids and aromatic compounds found in this class. Most of liverworts elaborate characteristic odiferous, pungent and bitter tasting compounds many of which show, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, allergenic contact dermatitis, cytotoxic, insecticidal, anti-HIV, superoxide anion radical release, plant growth regulatory, neurotrophic, NO production inhibitory, muscle relaxing, antiobesity, piscicidal and nematocidal activity. Several inedible mushrooms produce spider female pheromones, strong antioxidant, or cytotoxic compounds. The present paper concerns with the isolation of terpenoids, aromatic compounds and acetogenins from several bryophytes and inedible fungi and their cytotoxic and antiviral activity.