Antimicrobial and Antitumor Effects of Ergot Alkaloids and Their Derivatives

Ergot alkaloids and their derivatives are able to inhibit the growth of certain hormone-dependent tumors via the inhibition of prolactin release from the anterior pituitary gland (Cassady and Floss, 1977). The therapy of the prolactinoma, an adenoma of this gland, and other prolactin-producing tumors by e.g. bromokryptine or lisuride is of clinical relevance (Thorner et al., 1980). The inhibition of prolactin release is mediated by stimulation of dopamine D2-like receptors. However, there is a completely different mode of action which is responsible for antitumor properties of certain ergolines. The latter was detected in connection with the discovery of the antimicrobial activity of clavine-type ergot alkaloids.