Variability of Biological Activities of Limonoids Derived from Plant Sources

Limonoids are chemically classified on the basis of the four rings, marked as A, B, C and D in the intact triterpene nucleus with various oxidative modifications. The structural variations of limonoids found in Rutaceae species are lesser than in species of Meliaceae. Limonoids isolated from the plant family Meliaceae are more complex with very high degree of oxidation and structural rearrangements. Limonoids family exhibits a wide spectrum of biological properties, such as cytostatic, antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, antifeedant, antiviral, neuroprotective and a number of other activities like antimicrobial acitivity.