ergotalkaloids
Ergot alkaloids are a group of naturally occurring compounds produced by fungi of the genus Claviceps, most notably Claviceps purpurea, which infects grains such as rye. These alkaloids possess a complex chemical structure and have a significant impact on biological systems. Historically, ergot alkaloids were known for their association with ergotism, a disease caused by the consumption of ergot-contaminated food, which manifested in severe symptoms including gangrene and hallucinations.
Pharmacologically, ergot alkaloids act as agonists or antagonists of various neurotransmitter receptors, particularly serotonin and dopamine
However, due to their potent and sometimes unpredictable effects, the therapeutic use of ergot alkaloids requires