The ballet of nature: the interconvertible isomerisation of natural products

Abstract

Covering: up to 2025

The diverse interconversion of isomers among natural products (NPs) are shaped by both intrinsic structural characteristics and extrinsic environmental factors, representing a rich source of chemical complexity and biological diversity. Deciphering these intricate interconversion processes holds the potential to unlock a vast array of bioactive compounds, expanding our exploration of the chemical landscape. Identifying the specific conditions and molecular characteristics while accurately predicting ‘the ballet of nature’ will effectively achieve increased activity, lower toxicity, and superior pharmacokinetics. Such advancements will significantly broaden their applications in the development of valuable pharmaceuticals and products for medicine, agriculture, and industry. This review comprehensively outlines the origins and chemical classifications of paired interconvertible isomers in nature, including positional, tautomeric, geometric, optical, and conformational isomerism. Particular focus is given to the formation mechanisms of these interconversion processes.