Distribution of camptothecin through the plant kingdom

Many plant derived compounds have been used as drugs both in their original form and in semi-synthetic form. Camptothecin (CPT), a pyrole quinoline alkaloid, is one of the most promising anticancer drug of 21st century. It was first extracted from Camptotheca acuminata, since then it has been reported to exist in several plant species and also in plant endophytic fungi. Indiscriminate harvesting of these species for drug has led to a serious threat to these species. The distribution of CPT in the plant kingdom is being described here, so that the stress on the existing sources of CPT can be relieved by finding alternative sources.