nornikotin

Nornicotine is a minor alkaloid found in the tobacco plant, Nicotiana tabacum. It is one of the many nicotine-related compounds present in tobacco leaves. Nornicotine is structurally similar to nicotine, differing by the absence of a methyl group on the nitrogen atom of the pyrrolidine ring. It is formed in the plant through the demethylation of nicotine, a process that can occur both during plant growth and after harvesting.

The concentration of nornicotine in tobacco can vary significantly depending on the tobacco variety, cultivation conditions, and curing methods. In some tobacco types, nornicotine can be present in relatively high amounts, sometimes even exceeding that of nicotine. This presence can influence the sensory properties and potential health effects associated with tobacco use.

Nornicotine itself has pharmacological activity, though it is generally considered less potent than nicotine in its interaction with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. It can be further metabolized in the body to other compounds. Research has investigated the role of nornicotine and its metabolites in the addictive properties of tobacco and in the potential health risks associated with smoking, including its contribution to the formation of tobacco-specific nitrosamines, which are known carcinogens.