The molecule is an indole alkaloid fundamental parent with a structure of 9H-beta-carboline carrying a methyl substituent at C-1. It has been isolated from the bark of Sickingia rubra, Symplocus racemosa, Passiflora incarnata, Peganum harmala, Banisteriopsis caapi and Tribulus terrestris, as well as from tobacco smoke. It is a specific, reversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase A. It has a role as an anti-HIV agent, a plant metabolite and an EC 1.4.3.4 (monoamine oxidase) inhibitor. It is an indole alkaloid, an indole alkaloid fundamental parent and a harmala alkaloid.
1-methyl-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole