Recently, the NADPH-dependent short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) salutaridine reductase (E.C. 1.1.1.248) implicated in morphine biosynthesis was cloned from Papaver somniferum. In this report, a homology model of the Papaver bracteatum homolog was created based on the x-ray structure of human carbonyl reductase 1. The model shows the typical alpha/beta-folding pattern of SDRs, including ...

The archaeobotanical samples analysed derive from a well-preserved well dated to the Early Iron Age (Hallstatt) according to pottery found in the sampled layers and on a radiocarbon dating (720-520 cal B.C.) of the wooden construction of the well. Cultivated plants (Panicum miliaceum, Linum usitatissimum, Papaver somniferum and Camelina sativa) were recorded in relatively small numbers whereas ...

Despite the progress that has occurred in recent years in the development of therapy, there is still a need for effective and potent analgesics, especially for the treatment of chronic pain. One of the most important analgesic drugs employed in clinical practice today continues to be the alkaloid morphine. In this review, emphasis will be given to the important contribution and the history of P...

Cannabis sativa (Cannabis) is one of the world’s most well-known, yet maligned plant species. However, significant recent research starting to unveil potential produce secondary compounds that may offer a suite medical benefits, elevating this unique species from its illicit narcotic status into genuine biopharmaceutical. This review summarises lengthy history and details molecular pathways und...