dihydro-beta-erythroidine

Dihydro-beta-erythroidine (DHβE) is a plant-derived alkaloid isolated from the *Erythrina* genus and is a hydrogenated derivative of erythroidine. It acts as a potent, orally bioavailable, and competitive antagonist of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). DHβE exhibits high selectivity for the α4β2 and α4β4 receptor subtypes, which are critical mediators of nicotine's effects in the central nervous system. Due to its ability to block acetylcholine-mediated receptor activation, it is widely used as a research tool to study neuropharmacology, nicotine dependence, and mood disorders. In animal models, DHβE has demonstrated antidepressant-like activity and can antagonize various behavioral effects of nicotine, such as antinociception and motor impairment. Additionally, research has explored its potential role in inhibiting α7 nAChR-mediated pathways in specific cellular contexts, such as pancreatic cancer cell migration. It is not an approved therapeutic drug and is primarily distributed as a laboratory reagent by chemical suppliers.

Other names

dihydro-β-erythroidine2,3-dihydro-β-erythroidine