Ammonium amphiphiles based on natural compounds: design, synthesis, properties and biomedical applications. a review

This review analyzes and systematizes data for the last three years on the use of amphiphilic quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) based on natural structures in the search for new antibacterial and anticancer agents. As part of the analysis, publications on the properties of QAC based on heterocyclic and pyridine alkaloids, alkylated phenols, terpenoids, and steroids were considered. Attempts have been made to reveal the relationship between the structure of ammonium salts and their supramolecular self-organization, biological activity, and cytotoxicity. From the point of view of ease of chemical modification, availability, biorelevance and effectiveness against pathogen bacterial strains and antitumor activity, prospects for the use of natural platforms for extended trials have been identified.