Tropical Plants as Important Sources of Biologically Active Secondary Metabolites

Tropical plants are producing a vast diversity of secondary metabolites as a result of evolutionary adaptations to highly diverse tropical ecosystems. These molecules have been exploited throughout history to formulate traditional and modern medicines. However, most plant-derived pharmaceuticals are currently derived from phytochemicals found in temperate species. Based on the results of systematic analysis of literature, review clearly illustrates the value of tropical plants as sources of bioactive secondary metabolites and shows their potential in the development of industrial products. Findings also highlight the importance of secondary metabolites in ecological interactions in tropical ecosystems, justify the importance of plant-derived products of tropical origin in drugs discovery and discuss opportunities and limitations of bioprospecting for novel phytochemicals in tropics. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the need for conservation of quickly disappearing phytochemical diversity and related indigenous knowledge in tropical regions. Based on the findings, future bioprospecting success in tropical plants needs investment in research infrastructure, high-tech drug discovery methods, and international biodiversity law harmonization. Furthermore, intensifying conservation efforts in tropical areas will be crucial for preserving phytochemical diversity and indigenous knowledge of plant uses.