Dear Colleagues,

Secondary metabolites, so-called because they are not involved in basic vital functions, are organic compounds produced by bacteria, fungi and plants whose main function is to mediate interactions between plant and animal ecosystems, in addition to playing a role in defense against external attack (e.g., protecting plants against herbivores). Secondary metabolites of plant origin are widely used in the aromatic, medical and pharmaceutical sectors. Indeed, the extensive pharmacological effects of medicinal plants depend primarily on their phytochemical constituents.

Generally, the secondary metabolites extracted from plants are complex mixtures of compounds classified according to their chemical structures. Since plant chemistry underlies the therapeutic use of herbs, a good understanding of the plant’s chemical composition is essential for a better understanding of the possible medicinal value of the plant itself.  Chromatographic analysis, including liquid and/or gas, and mass spectrometry are suitable and robust techniques for the separation and identification of secondary metabolites including various classes of compounds.

Dr. Stefania Garzoli
Guest Editor

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• GC and GC-MS
• HPLC-MS
• natural products
• secondary metabolites
• phytochemicals
• medicinal plants
• chemical analyses