Toxicological action and ecological importance of plant photosensitizers.

This review discusses the biochemical action and ecological significance of phototoxic phytochemicals. Mechanistic details of photosensitization as well as cellular and molecular targets of plant-derived phototoxins in model biological systems (microbial and in vitro) and in herbivorous insects are described. Findings from these studies suggest the potential importance of phototoxic plant metabolites in plant-insect interactions. Aspects of phototoxin distribution and significance in diverse ecosystems are considered, and areas for future research are suggested.