The isolation-biological activities (2014-2022), bio, semi, total synthesis (1978-2022) and SAR studies of a potential naturally engineered scaffold aristolactam

Aristolactams are a small group of aporphinoid alkaloids containing the phenanthrene chromophore that were first isolated from Aristolochia argentina (Aristolochiaceae), which is the richest source of this family of alkaloids. Plants containing aristolactam alkaloids have also been used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases. Thus, in this review, we compile and summarise the recent structures, isolation and biological activities of new and known aristolactam alkaloids from 2014 to 2022, and the total synthetic approaches to the natural products bearing an aristolactam motif from 1978 to 2022. Focus has been given to ingenious strategies to functionalize the aristolactam moiety at multiple positions. In addition, the SAR studies of a potential naturally engineered aristolactam scaffold are discussed.