Ammonium Amphiphiles Based on Natural Compounds: Design, Synthesis, Properties, and Biomedical Applications. A Review

In order to search for new antibacterial and anticancer agents, the data of amphiphilic quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) based on natural structures were analyzed and systematized over the past three years in this review. The analysis of publication is considered on the properties of QAS based on heterocyclic and pyridine alkaloids, alkylated phenols, terpenoids and steroids. The relationships between the structure of ammonium salts and their supramolecular self-assembly, biological activity, and cytotoxicity were tried to be revealed. In terms of synthetic ease of chemical modification, availability, biorelevance, and efficacy against strains of bacterial pathogens and antitumor activity, prospects for using natural platforms for extended trials have been identified.