Bi- and tricyclic diterpenoids: landmarks from a decade (2013-2023) in search of leads against infectious diseases

Nat Prod Rep. 2024 Dec 11;41(12):1858-1894. doi: 10.1039/d4np00021h.

Abstract

Covering: 2013 to 2023In an era where antimicrobial resistance severely threatens our ability to treat infections, the discovery of new drugs that belong to different chemical classes and/or bear original modes of action is urgently needed. In this case, diterpenoids comprise a productive field with a proven track record in providing new anti-infectives to tackle bacterial infections and malaria. This review highlights the potential of both naturally occurring and semi-synthetic bi- and tricyclic diterpenoids to become leads in search of new drugs to treat infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoan parasites. The literature from the last decade (2013-2023) is covered, focusing on naturally occurring and semi-synthetic bicyclic (labdanes and labdane-type) and tricyclic (all classes) diterpenoids, detailing their relevant biological activities in the context of infection, which are explained through structure-activity relationships.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents / chemistry
  • Anti-Infective Agents / pharmacology
  • Communicable Diseases / drug therapy
  • Diterpenes* / chemistry
  • Diterpenes* / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Molecular Structure
  • Structure-Activity Relationship

Substances

  • Diterpenes
  • Anti-Infective Agents