Definition & Structure of Glycosides
General Structure: Composed of a sugar (glycone) linked to a non-sugar moiety (aglycone) via a glycosidic bond. (Glycosides)
Diversity: The aglycone determines the compound's biological activity and can be phenolic, steroidal, terpenoid, etc.
Biological Functions in Plants
Defense & Storage: Store toxic compounds, activated by enzymatic hydrolysis during tissue damage.
Regulation: Aid in plant growth, cell signaling, and stress protection.
Pharmacological Applications
Drug Prodrugs: Inactive until sugar is removed, enabling controlled release of the aglycone.
Therapeutic Uses:
Cardiac glycosides improve heart muscle function.
Others exhibit laxative, anti-inflammatory, or antimicrobial effects.