Question

Name the alkaloid obtained from the seeds of colchicum autumnale. What is its importance?

Answer 1

Colchicine is an alkaloid which is obtained from the seeds of Colchicum autumnale. It inhibits the microtuble polymerization which is essential to mitosis. They have the property which can cause the disruption of the microtubules which are responsible for the formation of the spindle. This is considered as a toxic chemical which helps to induce polyploidy in the plants.