7-Mitragynine synthetic routes review
Rich literature exists on acquiring Mitragynine [MA], 7-hydro mitragynine [7-HMA] and other species from Mitragyna speciosa. Most of these reports use various extraction methodologies to maximize the yield of the two compounds. Synthetic works for various alkaloids have also been published.
Mitragynine has a stronger analgesic effect than morphine and its application for the treatment of opiate addiction in replacement therapy has been suggested. The antitussive, anaesthetic, stimulant and analgesic properties of mitragynine have also been reported in published works. This alkaloid activates the CNS via the noradrenergic and serotonergic systems, inhibits the vas deferens contraction elicited by nerve stimulation and inhibits the guinea-pig ileum contraction in vitro via the opioid receptor. Fresh kratom leaves are traditionally chewed to relieve fatigue and muscle strain. 7-hydroxy mitragynine has a 30 fold higher potency than mitragynine and 17 fold times than morphine.
The synthetic routes for total synthesis of two alkaloids, Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxy Mytragynine have been studied. It has been found that different possible pathways exist for their synthetic preparation that makes the use of Mitragyna speciosa unnecessary. The reported methodologies for the two compounds are greatly different. Mitragynine requires long, costly procedures that can yield up to 29% of MA. On the other hand, 7-HMA can be produced efficiently and at low cost via a range of one step [mainly] reactions.
The overall viability of the project depends solely on one factor: The production rates of 7-HMA. Low production rates cannot achieve the low costs of buying MA from extraction sources. Long and great manufacture on the other hand can be financially feasible for a company. The number of steps required for the preparation of MA point towards the need of a fully equipped chemical laboratory.
The current status reveals a trend for organometallic chemistry for the synthesis of MA. All manufacturing approaches up to date comprise numerous steps. Even a small breakthrough in the reaction pathway can lead to rendering the plant obsolete.