Lanicepines A and B, sesquiterpenes with amino acid-derived substituents from the flowering aerial parts of Saussurea laniceps


Maackiain is a novel antiallergic compound that suppresses transcriptional upregulation of the histamine H1 receptor and interleukin-4 genes.

Kujin contains antiallergic compounds that inhibit upregulation of histamine H1 receptor (H1R) and interleukin (IL)-4 gene expression. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. We sought to identify a Kujin-derived antiallergic compound and investigate its mechanism of action. The H1R and IL-4 mRNA levels were determined by real-time quantitative RT-PCR. To investigate the effects of maackiain in vivo, toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (TDI)-sensitized rats were used as a nasal hypersensitivity animal model. We identified (-)-maackiain as the responsible component. Synthetic maackiain showed stereoselectivity for the suppression of IL-4 gene expression but not for H1R gene expression, suggesting distinct target proteins for transcriptional signaling. (-)-Maackiain inhibited of PKCδ translocation to the Golgi and phosphorylation of Tyr(311) on PKCδ, which led to the suppression of H1R gene transcription. However, (-)-maackiain did not show any antioxidant activity or inhibition of PKCδ enzymatic activity per se. Pretreatment with maackiain alleviated nasal symptoms and suppressed TDI-induced upregulations of H1R and IL-4 gene expressions in TDI-sensitized rats. These data suggest that (-)-maackiain is a novel antiallergic compound that alleviates nasal symptoms in TDI-sensitized allergy model rats through the inhibition of H1R and IL-4 gene expression. The molecular mechanism underlying its suppressive effect for H1R gene expression is mediated by the inhibition of PKCδ activation.


Coleifolides A and B, Two New Sesterterpenoids from the Aerial Parts of Scutellaria coleifolia H.Lév.

Coleifolides A and B (1 and 2), two new sesterterpenoids with a -methyl-,-unsaturated--lactone moiety, were isolated from the aerial parts of Scutellaria coleifolia H.Lév. (Lamiaceae), together with three known compounds. Their structures were elucidated by NMR and MS examinations. Coleifolides A and B were concluded to be partially racemic compounds by the HPLC analysis using a chiral column or introduction of chiral derivatizing agents. The absolute configuration of the major isomer was determined by analyses of the CD spectrum as well as NMR data of (R)- and (S)-2-NMA derivatives. Coleifolides A and B are structurally similar to manoalide derivatives, previously isolated from marine sponges, and appear to be the first examples of this type of compounds being isolated from higher plants.


Acylated neo-clerodanes and 19-nor-neo-clerodanes from the aerial parts of Scutellaria coleifolia (Lamiaceae).

Scutefolides A1 and A2, two acylated neo-clerodanes with a 19,18--lactone, scutefolides B1, B2 and C, three 19-nor-neo-clerodanes, together with scutefolides D, E1, E2 and F, four neo-clerodanes, were isolated from the EtOAc-soluble fraction of the aerial parts of Scutellaria coleifolia. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic analysis. The absolute configurations of four of these compounds were elucidated by the CD exciton chirality method. Cytotoxic activities of scutefolides D-F against four cancer cell lines (KB, A549, HeLa, and MCF7) were also evaluated, but they were inactive.


Antiparasitic effect of matrine and oxymatrine (quinolizidine alkaloids) on the ciliate Cryptocaryon irritans in the red sea bream Pagrus major.


Antiparasitic effects of Sophora flavescens root extracts on the ciliate, Cryptocaryon irritans


Hypelodins A and B, polyprenylated benzophenones from Hypericum elodeoides.

Two new polyprenylated benzophenones, hypelodins A (1) and B (2), were isolated from the aerial parts of the Chinese medicinal plant Hyperium elodeoides (Choisy). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. Hypelodin A (1) is a polyprenylated benzophenone having a tetrahydropyrane ring with three prenyl groups and one 4-methyl-1,3-pentadiene moiety, while hypelodin B (2) has a cage-like structure with a 6/6/5/7/6/5 hexacyclic ring system.


Efficacy and safety of Citrus sudachi peel in obese adults:A randomized, double-blind, pilot study


Prenylated Flavonoids from the Stems and Leaves of Desmodium caudatum and Evaluation of Their Inhibitory Activity against the Film-Forming Growth of Zygosaccharomyces rouxii F51.

In order to provide scientific evidence for the relationship between the traditional usage, stems and leaves of Desmodium caudatum being used for protecting miso from spoilage, and its Japanese name (miso-naoshi), phytochemical study on the stems and leaves of this plant was carried out. Seven new prenylated flavonoids (1-3, 15-18), together with 19 known compounds (4-14, 19-26), were isolated, and the structures of new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 28 flavonoids, including 17 compounds (1, 2, 4, 5, 7-14, 20-22, 24, 25) isolated in this study and 11 flavonoids (27-37) previously isolated from the roots of this plant, against the film-forming yeast of Zygosaccharomyces rouxii F51 were determined. Fifteen compounds (2, 4, 5, 11, 12, 14, 21, 22, 25, 27, 28, 32-35) inhibited the film-forming growth of Z. rouxii F51 (MIC values, 7.8-62.5 g/mL), among which 2'',2''-dimethylpyran-(5'',6'':7,8)-5,2'-dihydroxy-4'-methoxy-(2R,3R)-dihydroflavonol (11) demonstrated potent inhibitory activity with an MIC value of 7.8 g/mL.

Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry


Triterpenoids from the fruits of Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae).

Four new triterpenoids, indicalilacols A-D (1-4), were isolated from the MeOH extract of the fruits of Azadirachta indica, including a new 19(109)abeo-tirucallane derivative, two new tirucallane-type triterpenoids, and a new euphane-type triterpenoid, along with three known tirucallane-type triterpenoids. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analyses. The absolute configuration of 2 was elucidated by the chemical conversion of 2 into 21-oxo-melianodiol 24,25-acetonide. Compounds 2, 6-8 exhibited moderate cytotoxicity against three human cancer cell lines, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) cancer cells (KB-C2). Although compound 5 was not cytotoxic against any of the tested cancer cell lines, 5 showed cytotoxicity against KB-C2 cells in the presence of 2.5 M colchicine, suggesting that 5 might have an MDR-reversal effect.


Conjugates of a secoiridoid glucoside with a phenolic glucoside from the flower buds of Lonicera japonica Thunb.

Secoiridoid glucosides, including two conjugates with a phenolic and two conjugates with a nicotinic acid derivative (3 and 4), together with seven known secoiridoid derivatives, were isolated from flower buds of Lonicera japonica. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses. Anti-influenza activities of six isolated compounds were also evaluated by plaque assay and neuraminidase inhibitory assay.


Rigenolide A, a new secoiridoid glucoside with a cyclobutane skeleton, and three new acylated secoiridoid glucosides from Gentiana rigescens Franch.

Rigenolide A (1), a new secoiridoid glucoside with a cyclobutane skeleton and three new acylated secoiridoid glucosides, 2'-(2,3-dihydroxybenzoyl)-gentiopicroside (2), 2'-(2,3-dihydroxybenzoyl)-swertiamarin (3), 3'-(2,3-dihydroxybenzoyl)-sweroside (4), along with two noriridoids (7 and 8) and two known secoiridoid glucosides (5 and 6), were isolated from Gentiana rigescens Franch. The structures of new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses. The isolated compounds were evaluated for DPPH free-radical scavenging activity.


Structural elucidation and biological fate of two glucuronyl metabolites of pelargonidin 3-O--D-glucopyranoside in rats.

A high proportion of pelargonidin 3-O--D-glucopyranoside (Pg3G) is metabolized to glucuronides and excreted in mammal urine after ingestion of strawberry fruit, suggesting that these metabolites play important functional roles in vivo. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the structures and determine the biological fate of the two dominant metabolites of Pg3G in rats to enable an accurate discussion of the biological properties of anthocyanins. Authentic Pg3G was orally administered to rats. One pelargonidin monoglucuronide and three Pg3G-monoglucuronides (glucuronides of the glucoside) were identified together with intact Pg3G in both blood plasma and urine samples. The structures of the two dominant metabolites were elucidated as pelargonidin 3-O--D-glucuronide (Pg3GlcA) and pelargonidin 3-O--D-glucuronyl-(12)--D-glucoside by means of (1)H and (13)C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and heteronuclear multiple-bond connective spectroscopy. The bioavailability of Pg3G in its intact form was 0.31% of the orally administered dose, and 0.65% was absorbed in the Pg3GlcA form.


New sesquiterpene lactone glucosides from the roots of Ferula varia.


Prenylated flavonoids from the roots of Desmodium caudatum and evaluation of their antifungal activity.

Two new prenylated flavonoids (1, 4) and two new prenylated C-methyl-flavonoids (6, 7), together with four known flavonoids (2, 3, 5, 8), were isolated from the roots of Desmodium caudatum. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses including 1D-, 2D-NMR and MS. The antifungal activities of five compounds (1, 2, 4, 6, 8) as well as nine flavonoids (9-17) previously isolated from this plant against Aspergillus niger, Penicillium sp., Rhizopus sp., and Trichophyton sp. were evaluated. Compound 6 showed potent antifungal activity against Trichophyton sp. with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 1.95 µg/mL.


Prenylated flavonoids from Desmodium caudatum and evaluation of their anti-MRSA activity.

Seven prenylated flavonoids and a prenylated chromanochroman derivative, together with eight known flavonoids, were isolated from roots of Desmodium caudatum. The 15 structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses. The antibacterial activity of many of other compounds was evaluated against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA: COL and 5) by a disc diffusion method, and the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) to MRSA were determined.


Quantification of phosphatidic acid in foodstuffs using TLC-imaging technique

Apical application of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a growth-factor-like phospholipid, was shown to prevent or restore gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, such as diarrhea and stomach ulcer, in experimental animals. Because LPA is formed from phosphatidic acid (PA) by the activity of digestive phospholipase A(2), PA is a potential component for dietary treatment of such GI disorders. Here, we quantified PA contained in 38 foodstuffs and 3 herbs by a thin-layer-chromatography-imaging technique. Vegetables belonging to Brassicaceae, such as cabbage leaves (700 nmol/g of wet weight) and Japanese radish leaves (570 nmol/g), contained higher amounts of PA than other foodstuffs. Amounts of PA in fruits, cereals, and starchy root vegetables were below 300 nmol/g. Animal foodstuffs contained low amounts of PA (<60 nmol/g). Interestingly, leaves of Mallotus japonicas, a Japanese edible herb used for treatment of stomach ulcer, had the highest PA (1410 nmol/g) among those examined. The data shown here will be useful for the development of dietary treatment for a damaged GI tract.


New α-glucosides of caffeoyl quinic acid from the leaves of Moringa oleifera Lam.

Two new caffeoyl quinic acid α-glucosides, together with three known caffeoyl quinic acids and five known flavonoid glucosides, were isolated from the leaves of Moringa oleifera Lam. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated as 4-O-(4'-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl)-caffeoyl quinic acid (1) and 4-O-(3'-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl)-caffeoyl quinic acid (2) by spectroscopic analyses.


Triterpenes and a triterpene glucoside from Dysoxylum cumingianum and their cytotoxicity.

Six triterpenes and a triterpene glucoside were isolated from the MeOH extract of the leaves of Dysoxylum cumingianum together with three known triterpenes. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses. In cytotoxicity assays against three human cancer cell lines, including a multi-drug resistant cancer cell line (KB-C2), compounds 1, 2 and 5 demonstrated significantly enhanced cytotoxicity against KB-C2 cells in the presence of 2.5 μM colchicine, as compared with those in the absence of colchicine. This result suggested that these triterpenes might show some MDR-reversing effects.


Spicachlorantins G-J, New Lindenane Sesquiterpenoid Dimers from the Roots of Chloranthus spicatus.

Four new lindenane sesquiterpenoid dimers, spicachlorantins G-J (1-4), were isolated from the roots of Chloranthus spicatus together with seven known compounds, including chloramultilide A, shizukaol B, shizukaol D, shizukaol F, shizukaol P, chlorahololide D, and cycloshizukaol A. The planar structures of the new compounds were established by 1D-, 2D-NMR, and MS analyses. The absolute configurations of these compounds were determined by analyzing rotating Overhauser enhancement and exchange spectroscopy (ROESY) and circular dichroism (CD) spectra.


Dyscusins AC, Three New Steroids From the Leaves of Dysoxylum cumingianum.

Three new steroids dyscusins A-C (1-3), including a stigmastane-type sterol and two pregnanes, together with two known steroids were isolated from the leaves of Dysoxylum cumingianum (Meliaceae). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses. In a cytotoxicity assay, compound 1 showed ten-fold enhanced cytotoxicity against multi-drug resistant cancer cells (KB-C2) in the presence of 2.5 µM colchicine as compared with the absence of colchicine. This notable finding indicated that 1 possessed a multi-drug resistant reversal effect.


Biflavonoids from Flowers of Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub.


New 29-nor-cycloartanes with a 3,4-seco- and a novel 2,3-seco-structure from the leaves of Sinocalycanthus chinensis.

Eight new triterpenoids, including sinocalycanchinensins A-E (1-5) with a 3,4-seco-29-nor-cycloartane skeleton, sinocalycanchinensin F (6) possessing a novel 2,3-seco-29-nor-cycloartane skeleton, and 29-nor-cycloartanes, sinocalycanchinensins G and H (7 and 8), have been isolated from the leaves of Sinocalycanthus chinensis. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic examinations. The cytotoxicities of the isolated new triterpenes against a panel of human cancer cell lines, including multi-drug resistant (MDR) cancer cell lines, were also evaluated. Compound 5 demonstrated enhanced cytotoxicity against MDR KB cells in the presence of colchicine, although all the compounds showed moderate or no cytotoxicities.


Seven new dammarane triterpenes from the floral spikes of Betula platyphylla var. japonica.

Seven new dammarane-type triterpenoids, including two 20(S)-hydroxy-25-methoxy-dammar-23-enes (1 and 2), two 20(S),24(R)-epoxydammaranes (3 and 4), a cabralealactone (5), and two 20(S),25-epoxydammaranes (6 and 7), together with seven known triterpenes (8-14), were isolated from the floral spikes of Betula platyphylla var. japonica. The structures for all compounds were elucidated by the analyses of extensive spectroscopic data, as well as chemical examinations.


Four new glucosides from the aerial parts of Mediasia macrophylla

As part of our chemical studies on the medical plants in Uzbekistan aimed at searching for new drug leads, we have examined the aerial parts of Mediasia macrophylla. This has resulted in the isolation of four new glucosides, together with 30 known compounds. The structures of new compounds were elucidated as (1'S)-(4-hydroxyphenyl) ethane-1',2'-diol 2'-O-β-glucopyranoside (1), 3-(4'-methoxyphenyl)-propanol 1-O-β-glucopyranoside (2), 2-methoxy-3-hydroxy-5-(E)-propenyl-phenol 1-O-β-glucopyranoside (3), 1-O-angeloyl-β-glucopyranose (4), on the basis of spectral analysis.


Immunosuppressive sesquiterpenes from Buddleja daviddi

Six new sesquiterpenes, 2,6(12),10-humulatrien-7β-ol-1-one (1), 2 α-acetoxy-5α-methoxy-enantio-caryophylla-8(15)-en-3-one (2), 2α-acetoxy-5α-hydroxy-enantio-caryophylla-8(15)-en-3-one (3), 2α-acetoxy-4β,5α-hydroxy-enantio-caryophylla-8(15)-en-3-one ( 4), 2α-acetoxy-4β,5β-hydroxy-enantio-caryophylla-8(15)-en-3-one (5), 2β-acetoxy-4-caryophyllen-8β-ol-3-one (6), and nineteen known compounds were isolated from the ethanol extract of Buddleja daviddi. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods. Compounds 8-11, 14, 16, 17, and 20 showed significant immunosuppressive activities, and 8-11 and 14 were cytotoxic on HeLa and L929 cell lines.


A new labdanic norditerpene from Pinus sylvestris

A new labdanic norditerpene and six known labdanic diterpenes were isolated from the petroleum ether extract of the needles of Pinus sylvestris. By spectroscopic methods, the isolated compounds were determined as 15-norpinifolic acid (1), pinifolic acid (2), 4-eplimbricataloic acid (3), monomethyl pinifolate (4), 18α-acetoxylabd-8(17)-en-15-oic acid (5), 2-pentenoic acid (6) and 3β-hydroxy-8(17),E-13-labdadien-15-oic acid (7), respectively. Compound 1 showed significant anti-tumour activity.


Conjugates of Betulin Derivatives with AZT as Potent Anti-HIV Agents.

Fourteen novel conjugates of 3,28-di-O-acylbetulins with AZT were prepared as anti-HIV agents, based on our previously reported potent anti-HIV triterpene leads, including 3-O-acyl and 3,28-di-O-acylbetulins. Nine of the conjugates (49-53, 55, 56, 59, and 60) exhibited potent anti-HIV activity at the submicromolar level, with EC(50) values ranging from 0.040 to 0.098muM in HIV-1(NL4-3) infected MT-4 cells. These compounds were equipotent or more potent than 3-O-(3',3'-dimethylsuccinyl)betulinic acid (2), which is currently in Phase IIb anti-AIDS clinical trial.


Petiolins J-M, prenylated acylphloroglucinols from Hypericum pseudopetiolatum var. kiusianum.

Four new prenylated acylphloroglucinols, petiolins J-M (1-4), were isolated from aerial parts of Hypericum pseudopetiolatum var. kiusianum, and the structures were elucidated by spectroscopic data and a single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Petiolin J (1) exhibited antimicrobial activity.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters


Consultation clinics for complementary and alternative medicine at Japanese university hospitals: An analysis at Tokushima University Hospital

Here, we report on a Consultation Clinic for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) which we established at Tokushima University Hospital in July of 2007 with the aim of providing person-to-person information on CAM, though not CAM therapy itself. In December of 2008, we received 55 applications for consultation, 37% concerning health foods, 37% Japanese herbal medicine (Kampo), and 26% various other topics. The consultants (nutritionists and pharmacists) communicated individually with 38 applicants; malignancies (26%) and cardiovascular disease (24%) were the main underlying concerns. To promote the quality of consultation, data was collected by means of focus group interviews concerning the perspective of the consultants. Safe and effective use of CAM requires a network of communication linking individuals, consultation teams, physicians, primary care institutions and university hospitals. To advance this goal, we plan to broaden the efforts described herein. Our findings indicate that the specific role of the consultation clinic in promoting the scientific use of CAM merits further study.


A new C14-polyacetylenic glucoside with an -pyrone moiety and four new C10-polyacetylenic glucosides from Mediasia macrophylla

Polyacetylenic glucosides (1-5) were isolated from the MeOH extract of Mediasia macrophylla, and their structures were established by spectroscopic analyses. Compounds 2-4 were the first examples of C(10)-polyacetylenic glucosides found in the family Umbelliferae, while compound 1 was a unique polyacetylenic glucoside possessing an alpha-pyrone moiety.


Papyriferic Acid Derivatives as Reversal Agents of Multidrug Resistance in Cancer Cells.

Forty-one derivatives of papyriferic acid were prepared based on our previous finding that methyl papyriferate (3) showed potent reversing effect on cytotoxicity of colchicine against multidrug resistance (MDR) human cancer cells (KB-C2), and evaluated for their cytotoxicity and effect on reversing P-gp-mediated MDR against KB-C2 cells. 3-O-(Morpholino-beta-oxopropanoyl)-12beta-acetoxy-3alpha,25-dihydroxy-(20S,24R)-epoxydammarane (37) significantly increased the sensitivity of colchicine against KB-C2 cells by 185-fold at 5microg/mL (7.4microM), and the cytotoxicity of colchicine was recovered to nearly that of sensitive (KB) cells. The other several new amide derivatives also exhibited potent reversal activity comparable to or more potent than methyl papyriferate and verapamil.


Biyouxanthones A-D, prenylated xanthones from roots of Hypericum chinense


Petiolins F-I, benzophenone rhamnosides from Hypericum pseudopetiolatum var. kiusianum.

Four new benzophenone-O-rhamnosides, petiolins F-I (1-4), were isolated from aerial parts of Hypericum pseudopetiolatum var. kiusianum, and the structures were elucidated by spectroscopic data and chemical means.


Xanthones from Hypericum chinense and their cytotoxicity evaluation.

A xanthonolignoid, 2-O-demethylkielcorin, and a phenylxanthone, chinexanthone A, were isolated from stems of Hypericum chinense together with four known xanthonolignoids and seven known xanthones. Their structures were established by spectroscopic analysis, as their optical properties and absolute stereochemistry determined. The cytotoxicities of the isolated xanthone derivatives as well as additional 32 xanthones against a panel of human cancer cell lines were also evaluated.


Acylphloroglucinol, biyouyanagiol, biyouyanagin B, and related spiro-lactones from Hypericum chinense.

Biyouyanagiol (1), an acylphloroglucinol-related compound having a unique cyclopenta-1,3-dione moiety, was isolated from a Japanese traditional medicinal plant, Hypericum chinense, together with three new spiro-lactone-related derivatives, biyouyanagin B (2), 5,6-dihydrohyperolactone D (3), and 4-hydroxyhyperolactone D (4). Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. In a cytotoxicity assay against human cancer cell lines including multidrug-resistant (MDR) cancer cell lines, several compounds demonstrated enhanced cytotoxicity against MDR KB cells in the presence of colchicine.


Spicachlorantins A and B, New Dimeric Sesquiterpenes from the roots of Chloranthus spicatus.


Six new triterpenes, 3beta,6beta-dihydroxyurs-12-en-27-oic acid (1), 3beta,6beta,24-trihydroxyurs-12-en-27-oic acid (2), 3beta,6beta,7alpha-trihydroxyurs-12-en-27-oic acid (3), 3beta-acetoxy-6beta-hydroxyurs-12-en-27-oic acid (4), 3beta,6beta,24-trihydroxyolean-12-en-27-oic acid (5), and 3beta,6beta,7alpha-trihydroxyolean-12-en-27-oic acid (6), were isolated from the rhizomes of Astilbe chinensis. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D- and 2D-NMR analyses and HR-MS experiments. The isolated compounds exhibited significant cytotoxic activities against the SK-N-SH and HL-60 cell lines.

Journal of Asian Natural Products Research


Cytotoxic triterpene saponins from Alternanthera philoxeroides.

Four new pentacyclic triterpene saponins, philoxeroidesides A-D (1-4) were isolated from the aerial parts of Alternanthera philoxeroides. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D- and 2D-NMR experiments and MS analyses. Philoxeroidesides A-D (1-4) showed cytotoxic activities against SK-N-SH and HL60 cell lines.


Petiolins D and E, phloroglucinol derivatives from Hypericum pseudopetiolatum var. kiusianum.


Chromone and chromanone glucosides from Hypericum sikokumontanum and their anti-Helicobacter pylori activities.

Chromone glucosides, takanechromones A-C (1, 2 and 5) and chromanone glucosides, named takanechromanones A and B (3 and 4), were isolated from the methanolic extracts of Hypericumsikokumontanum together with 27 known compounds. Their structures were established based on spectroscopic evidence. The isolated compounds and some chromone derivatives were assayed for antimicrobial activity against Helicobacter pylori and cytotoxicity against human cancer cell lines.


Spicachlorantins CF, hydroperoxy dimeric sesquiterpenes from the roots of Chloranthus spicatus.


Ent-3,4-seco-labdane and ent-labdane diterpenoids from Croton stipuliformis (Euphorbiaceae)

From a methanolic extract of the leaves of Croton stipuliformis, three ent-3,4-seco-labdanes (1-3) and an ent-labdane (4) together with the known compounds 6-hydroxynidorellol (5), maravuic acid, and sitosterol were isolated and identified from their spectroscopic data. The absolute stereochemistry of compound 4 was determined by application of Mosher's method in the NMR tube.


Tomoenones A-H, cytotoxic phloroglucinol derivatives from Hypericum ascyron

Phloroglucinol derivatives tomoeones A-H (1-8) and three known compounds were isolated from leaves of Hypericum ascyron. Their structures were established based on spectroscopic analyses. They are all acylphloroglucinol derivatives possessing a spiro skeleton with geminal isoprenyl groups and a monoterpene moiety, and they are stereoisomers to each other at C-4 and C-13. They appear to be a class of phloroglucinol derivatives. Cytotoxicities of the isolated phloroglucinol derivatives against human tumor cell lines, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) cancer cell lines, were evaluated. Tomoeone F (6) demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against KB cells with an IC50 value of 6.2 microM. Compound 6 was also cytotoxic against MDR cancer cell lines (KB-C2 and K562/Adr), which was more potent than doxorubicin.


Prenylated Phrologrucinol Derivatives from Hypericum perforatum var. angustifolium

Two new prenylated phloroglucinol derivatives and 15 known compounds were isolated from the aerial parts of Hypericum perforatum var. angustifolium. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic evidence.


Novel Nortriterpenes from Phlomis umbrosa.

We isolated 8 novel 28-noroleanane-derived spirocyclic triterpenoids with unusual skeleton structures, phlomisone (1), phlomistetraol A (2), phlomistetraol B (3), phlomistetraol C (4), phlomispentaol (5), phlomishexaol A (6), phlomishexaol B (7), and phlomisin (8), from the ethanol extract of Phlomis umbrosa rhizomes. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods, including 1D, 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS), and X-ray analyses. Compounds 1-3, 5, and 7 exhibited positive cytotoxic activities against the carcinoma cell lines Hela and L929 in vitro, and these bioactive data suggested that the C-18 and C-21 positions had oxygenated functions that can improve the activity of the compound.


Petiolins A-C, phloroglucinol derivatives from Hypericum pseudopetiolatum var. kiusianum

Two new phloroglucinol derivatives possessing chromane skeleton, petiolins A (1) and B (2), and a new phloroglucinol derivative containing a dihydrofuran ring, petiolin C (3), were isolated from aerial parts of Hypericum pseudopetiolatum var. kiusianum. The gross structures of 1-3 were elucidated by spectroscopic data, and the relative stereochemistry of 3 was elucidated by NOESY data. Petiolins A-C (1-3) showed modest cytotoxicity, while petiolin C (3) exhibited antifungal activity.


Monoterpene glycosides from Paeonia hybrida

Monoterpene glycosides (1-5, and 7), together with 14 known compounds, were isolated from the methanol extract of the roots of Paeonia hybrida. These compounds included a paeoniflorin-related glycoside with a hybrid structure of paeoniflorin and paeonovicinoside (1), a monoterpene glucoside biogenetically related to lactiflorin (2), a paeoniflorin-related monoterpene (3), arbiflorin-related monoterpenes (4 and 5), and a tymol-related monoterpene glycoside (7). Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic examinations.


Takaneones A-C, prenylated butylphloroglucinol derivatives from Hypercum shikokumontanum


New Alkaloid from the aerial parts of Condonopsis clematidea

A new codonopsine-related alkaloid and 13 known compounds were isolated from the aerial parts of Codonopsis clematidea (Campanulaceae). The structure of the new compound was elucidated by two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance and other spectral examinations.


A new phenolic glucoside from an Uzbek medicinal plant, Origanum tyttanthum

A new phenolic glucoside was isolated from the aerial parts of Origanum tyttanthum, an Uzbek medicinal plant, together with 12 known compounds. The structure of the new compound was elucidated as 4-O-beta-D-glucopyranosylbenzyl-3'-hydroxyl-4'-methoxybenzoate (1) based on the spectral and chemical evidence.


Effect of Triterpenoids from the Floral Spikes of Betula platyphylla var. japonica on Glycoprotein Function

One of the major causes of multidrug resistance (MDR) in cancer cells is over-expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). We studied the effects of 20 triterpenes isolated from the floral spikes of Betula platyphylla var. japonica ( B. platyphylla) on P-gp function based on our previous finding that some of them showed MDR reversing effects. We evaluated accumulations and effluxes of rhodamine 123 as a P-gp substrate with P-gp over-expressing KB-C2 cells. Among the 20 triterpenes, compounds 3, 4, 8, 9, 13, 15, and 20 increased rhodamine 123 accumulations in KB-C2 cells, and three ( 8, 13, and 20) of them also inhibited efflux of rhodamine 123 out of cells. In addition, compounds 13 and 20 showed a weak inhibitory activity of P-gp ATPase. These results suggested that MDR reversing effects of compounds 13 and 20 are partly involved in inhibition of P-gp ATPase.


Study on chromatographic fingerprint of extractive from Tripterygium wilfordii with supercritical carbon dioxide.

To establish the chromatographic fingerprint of supercritical carbon dioxide extract of Tripterygium wilfordii. HPLC method was applied for quality assessment of T. Wilfordii, HPLC analysis was performed on Kromasil C18 (4. 6 mm x 250 mm, 5 microm) with the mixture of acetonitrile-1% per thousand H3PO4, as mobile phase in gradient mode. The samples were detected at UV of 267 nm with column temperature of 35 degrees C, analytic time was 80 min; Flow-rate was 1.0 mL x min(-1). The chromatographic fingerprint of ten batches of samples was determined, for establishing the chromatographic fingerprint of T. Wilfordii. Indicating 27 peaks in common, identified 21 peaks with chemical reference and HPLC-MS, and the HPLC fingerprint was established. The method is steady and accurate with a good repeatability and can be used as a quality control method for T. Wilfordii.


Sesquiterpene Lactone from the Roots of Ferula varia and Their Cytotoxic Activity,

The ethyl acetate-soluble fraction from a MeOH extract of the roots of Ferula varia gave six new sesquiterpene lactones (1-6) and five known sesquiterpenes (7-11). Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. The cytotoxic activities of 1-11 were evaluated against selected human cancer cell lines. Compound 4 showed significant selective cytotoxicity against multidrug-resistant cancer cells (KB-C2). The cytotoxicities of compounds 1, 3, 5, 8, and 11 against KB-C2 cells were enhanced in the presence of nontoxic concentrations of colchicine.


Prenylated xanthones from Hypericum ascyron


A novel chalcone derivative from Onychium japonicum.


Immunosuppressive terpenes from Prinsepia utilis.

Two new hemiterpenes, utililactone (1) and epiutililactone (2), along with nine known compounds (3-11), were isolated from the leaves of Prinsepia utilis. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data. The isolated compounds showed significant immunosuppressive activities.

Journal of Asian Natural Products Research


Chemical constituents from rhizome of Phlomis umbrosa.

Phlomis umbrosa is a traditional medicinal plant, distributed in the north of China. In the west of Hubei province, its roots were used in the treatment of the rheumatic diseases in Tujia nationality. To study the chemical constituents from the rhizome of Phlomis umbrosa chemical constituents were isolated from the plant by using repeated silica gel, toyopearl HW-40 and preparative HPLC chromatography. The structures of the compounds were elucidated on the basis of one and two dimensional NMR spectroscopic techniques and HRESI-MS. Ten compounds, 6"-syringyl-sesamoside (1), decaffeoylverbascoside (2), calcelarioside B (3), verbascoside (4), isoverbascoside (5), alyssonoside (6), sesamoside (7), shanzhiside methyl ester (8), 8-acetyl-shanzhiside methyl ester (9), 7-epiphlomiol (10) were isolated from P. umbrosa. Compound 1 is a new compound. Compounds 2-6 are isolated from this plant for the first time.


Triterpenoids from the Floral Spikes of Betula platyphylla var. japonica and Their Reversing Activity against Multidrug-Resistant Cancer Cells

Four new triterpenes, together with 16 known triterpenes, were isolated from the floral spikes of Betula platyphylla var. japonica in a search for compounds capable of reversing multidrug resistance in cancer cells. The structures of the new triterpenes were elucidated as 3,4-seco-olean-4(23),13(18)-dien-3-oic acid (1), 3,4-seco-urs-4(23),20(30)-dien-3-oic acid (2), 3-O-methylmalonylepiocotillol II (6), and 3-O-methylmalonylcabraleahydroxylactone (16) by spectroscopic examination. The cytotoxicity of the isolated triterpenes against human cancer cell lines as well as multidrug-resistant cancer cell lines was evaluated. Most of the isolated triterpenes showed very weak cellular toxicities. Although no discernible differences were found in the cytotoxicities for the tested compounds against sensitive and resistant cell lines, the cytotoxicities for several triterpenes against multidrug-resistant cancer cell lines (KB-C2 or K562/Adr) were enhanced in the presence of nontoxic concentrations of colchicine or doxorubicin. Compound 10 reversed the cytotoxicity of colchicine against KB-C2 cells at 8.1 microM and showed comparable potency to 5 microM verapamil.


Chemical constituents of an Uzbek medicinal plant, Perovskia scrophularifolia


Xanthones from Stems of Hypericum chinense

Six new xanthones, 4,6-dihydroxy-2,3-dimethoxyxanthone (1), 2,6-dihydroxy-3,4-dimethoxyxanthone (2), 6-hydroxy-2,3,4-trimethoxyxanthone (3), 3,6-dihydroxy-1,2-dimethoxyxanthone (4), 4,7-dihydroxy-2,3-dimethoxyxanthone (5), and 3,7-dihydroxy-2,4-dimethoxyxanthone (6) were isolated from the stems of Hypericum chinense, together with four known xanthones. Their structures were established based on spectroscopic studies.


A new triterpene and a saponin from Centella asiatica


Two new phenylethanoid glycosides from the roots of Phlomis umbrosa


Antioxidant activity of two flavonol glycosides from Cirsium hypoleucum DC. through bioassay-guided fractionation

Turkish Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences


Two eudesmane sesquiterpenes from Laggera pterodonta


Acta Crystallographica. Section E, Structure Reports Online


Terpenoids from Juniperus polycarpus var. seravschanica

Two eudesmanes, two abietanes, two podocarpanes and other nine known compounds were isolated from the dried fruits of Juniperus polycarpus var. seravschanica. Their structures were established on the basis of analysis of spectroscopic evidence. Some of the isolated terpenoids showed antimalarial activity.


A Novel Triterpene from Centella asiatica

A novel triterpene, 2alpha,3beta,20,23-tetrahydroxyurs-28-oic acid (1), was isolated from the aerial part of Centella asiatica. Its structure was elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including 2D-NMR spectra. It displayed no activity against Hela and A549 cell lines at concentrations of 10 and 30 microg/mL, respectively.


Tripfordines A-C, Sesquiterpene Pyridine Alkaloids from Tripterygium wilfordii, and Structure Anti-HIV Activity Relationships of Tripterygium Alkaloids

Three new sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloids, tripfordines A-C (1-3), were isolated from an ethanolic extract of the roots of Tripterygium wilfordii, along with eight known pyridine alkaloids, and tested for in vitro cytotoxic and anti-HIV activity. The structures of the new compounds were established on the basis of spectroscopic data interpretation. Anti-HIV structure-activity relationships (SAR) for this compound type are proposed on the basis of the screening results from the newly isolated compounds and prior data of known sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloids. The position of a carboxyalkyl chain on the pyridine moiety was not critical since both 2'- and 4'-substituted compounds exhibited high anti-HIV activity (EC(50) 0.1 microg/mL). In contrast, a hydroxy group at C-8' (carboxypropyl side chain) or C-9' (carboxybutyl side chain) was found to affect anti-HIV activity.


Six xanthones, 1,3,7-trihydroxy-2-(2-hydroxy-3-methyl-3-butenyl)-xanthone (1), 1,7-dihydroxy-2,3-[2''-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)-dihydrofurano]-xanthone (2), 1,3,7-trihydroxy-5-methoxyxanthone (3), 1,7-dihydroxy-5,6-dimethoxyxanthone (4), 4,5-dihydroxy-2,3-dimethoxyxanthone (5), 1,3-dihydroxy-2,4-dimethoxyxanthone (6) and 21 known xanthones were isolated from the leaves and stems of Hypericum chinense. Their structures were established based on spectroscopic studies.


Chemical Constituents from the Peels of Citrus sudachi

A methanol extract of the peels of Citrus sudachi gave five new compounds (1-5) and 27 known compounds. The structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. Several of these compounds were assayed for antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Helicobacter pylori, and sudachitin (6) and 3'-demethoxysudachitin (7) were the most active.


Immunosuppressive diacetylenes, ceramides and cerebrosides from Hydrocotyle leucocephalata

Three C-17 diacetylenic compounds (1-3), one monoterpenoid (4), seven ceramides (leucoceramides A-G, 5a-g), six cerebrosides (leucocerebrosides A-F, 6a-f) and nine known compounds were isolated from the methanolic extract of Hydrocotyle leucocephala. Their structures were established by spectroscopic methods. The isolated compounds 1-3, 5a-g, 6a-f and 7 were shown to be active in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced cytokine production assay for IL-10, IL-12, and TNF-alpha.


The phytochemical study of the aerial parts of Laggera pterodonta afforded two new eudesmane sesquiterpenes, 3alpha,4beta,11-trihydroxyenantioeudesmane (pterodontriol E) (1) and 4beta,8beta,11-trihydroxyenantioeudesmane (pterodontriol F) (2), along with seven known compounds. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data.

Journal of Asian Natural Products Research


New dammarane-type saponin from roots of Panax notoginseng


Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Quercetin Oxidation Products from Yellow Onion (Alliu cepa) Skin

Four new quercetin-derived oxidation products (1-4) and lunularin-4-O-beta-D-glucoside (5) were isolated from a water extract of onion (Allium cepa) skin, together with 17 other known compounds. Antibacterial assays for the isolated compounds showed that 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-4,6-dihydroxy-2-methoxybenzofuran-3-one (1) presented selective activity against Helicobacter pylori strains and 3-(quercetin-8-yl)-2,3-epoxyflavanone (4) showed antibacterial activity against MRSA and H. pylori strains at the same time that it increased susceptibility of MRSA to beta-lactams. Evaluation of antioxidant activity against DPPH for the isolated compounds showed that the new derivative compounds (1-4) and 2,5,7,3',4'-pentahydroxy-3,4-flavandione (6) are more active than quercetin.

Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry


Two New Triterpenes from Astilbe chinensis


Isolation and structural elucidation of antimicrobial compounds from buckwheat hull

Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology


ILSMRs (intensifier of β-lactam-susceptibility in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) from Tara [Caesalpinia spinosa (Molina) Kuntze]

Four quinic acid gallates were isolated from the dried pods of Tara [Caesalpinia spinosa (Molina) Kuntze]. These compounds intensified the susceptibility of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) to oxacillin. 3,4,5-Tri-O-galloylquinic acid methyl ester (2) was the most effective compound of them.


A New Hemiterpene Derivative From Pyinsepia utilis


Terpene alkaloids from Tripterygium wilfordii

Two new sesquiterpene alkaloids, 1beta-hydroxy-2beta,5alpha,11-triacetoxy-7beta-nicotinoyl-8beta-benzoyl-dihydroagarofuran, and 1beta,5alpha,11-triacetoxy-7beta-nicotinoyl-8beta-benzoyl-dihydroagarofuran were isolated from the xylem of Tripterygium wilfordii, together with six known compounds. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic studies.


A Novel Drimane-Type Sesquiterpene from Limonium wrightii

A new drimane-type sesquiterpene, (2S^*,6R^*)-2,6-dihydroxyisodrimenin (1) was isolated from the aerial part of a subtropical plant, Limonium wrightii (HANCE) KUNTZE (Plumbaginaceae), along with drimenin (3), hovetrichoside C (10) and six known tyramides (4-9), and the structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods. Compound 1 is the first example of a 2-hydroxyisodrimenin-type sesquiterpene.


Cupaniol, a New Branched Polyprenol, from Cupania latifolia

A new branched polyprenol, designated cupaniol, has been isolated from the methanol extract of the leaves of Cupania latifolia (Sapindaceae). The structure was determined to be (2E,6E,12E,16E)-3,7,13,17,21-pentamethyl-10-(1-methylethenyl)-2,6,12,16,20-docosapentaen-1-ol on the basis of spectral analysis and conversion to a known compound.


Biyouyanagin A, an Anti-HIV Agent from Hypericum chinense L. var. salicifolium

[structure: see text] A structurally unique hydrophobic compound, biyouyanagin A, was isolated from the MeOH extract of the leaves of Hypericum chinense L. var. salicifolium. The structure of biyouyanagin A was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. Biyouyanagin A showed a significant activity against HIV and inhibited cytokine production.


Immunosuppressive Sesquiterpenes from Tripterygium wilfordii

Five new sesquiterpenes, 1beta-furanoyl-2beta,3alpha,7alpha,8beta,11-pentaacetoxy-4alpha,5alpha-dihydroxy-dihydroagarofuran (1), 1beta,2beta,3alpha,5alpha,7beta,8beta,11-heptaacetoxy-dihydroagarofuran (2), 1beta-furanoyl-2beta,3alpha,7alpha,8beta,11-pentaacetoxy-5alpha-hydroxy-dihydroagarofuran (3), 1beta,7beta,8alpha-triacetoxy-2beta-furanoyl-4alpha-hydroxy-11-isobutyryloxy-dihydroagarofuran (4), and 1beta-nicotinoyl-2beta,5alpha,7beta-triacetoxy-4alpha-hydroxy-11-isobutyryloxy-8alpha-furanoyl-dihydroagarofuran (5), were isolated from the xylem of Tripterygium wilfordii, together with a known compound (6). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic studies. Compounds 2-5 showed significant immunosuppressive activities.


Anti-Helicobacter pylori Compounds from Santalum album

Six new sesquiterpenes, (Z)-2beta-hydroxy-14-hydro-beta-santalol (1), (Z)-2alpha-hydroxy-albumol (2), 2R-(Z)-campherene-2,13-diol (3), (Z)-campherene-2beta,13-diol (4), (Z)-7-hydroxynuciferol (5), and (Z)-1beta-hydroxy-2-hydrolanceol (6), together with five known compounds, (Z)-alpha-santalol (7), (Z)-beta-santalol (8), (Z)-lanceol (9), alpha-santaldiol (10), and beta-santaldiol (11), were isolated from Santalum album, by using bioassay-guided fractionation for Helicobacter pylori. The structures were determined by extensive NMR studies. The absolute configuration of compound 3 was determined by a modified Mosher method. The crude extracts as well as the isolated compounds showed antibacterial activity against H. pylori. Especially, compounds 7 and 8 have strong anti-H. pylori activities against a clarithromycin-resistant strain (TS281) as well as other strains.


Champanones, yellow pigments from the seeds of champa (Campomanesia lineatifolia)

Chemical investigation of the methanol extract of the seeds of Campomanesia lineatifolia Ruiz and Pav. (Myrtaceae) led to the isolation of two new beta-triketone type compounds, named champanones A (1) and B (2), together with the known 2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxy-6,8,8-trimethyl-2-phenyl-4H-1-benzopyran-4,7(8H)-dione (champanone C) (3). The structures of 1 and 2 were determined to be 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-6-(1-oxo-3-phenylprop-2-enyl) cyclohexane-1,3,5-trione (occurs as an enol form) and 2,2,4-trimethyl-6-(1-oxo-3-phenylprop-2-enyl)cyclohexane-1,3,5-trione (occurs as an enol form), respectively, by means of spectroscopic analysis. The three compounds showed mild antimicrobial activity.


Chemical Constituents from Fruits and Seeds of Myrica rubra (Myricaceae)

Two dammarane-type triterpenes and one steroid were isolated from the fruits of Myrica rubra and one furofran lignan was isolated from the seeds of M.rubra. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectral evidence. In addition, 16 known compounds were assayed for LPS-induced cytokine production.


Chemical Constituents of Capsicum annuum L var. angulosum, and Anti Helicobacter pylori Activity

One new and 47 known compounds were isolated from the fruits and the stems of Capsicum annuum var. angulosum. The structures of the isolated new and known compounds were determined by extensive NMR studies and compared with a reference value of the spectral data. Furthermore, antibacterial activity against Helicobacter pylori of the isolated 41 compounds was measured.


Cyclobutane Dimers from the Colombian Medicinal Plant Achyrocline bogotensis

Five cyclobutane dimers, achyrodimers A-E (1-5), along with 11 known compounds were isolated from the methanol extract of the Colombian medicinal plant Achyrocline bogotensis. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopy. Several of these compounds were screened for cytokine-inducing activity in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.


Indole alkaloids from Rheum maximowiczii

A new indol alkaloid along with 17 known compounds were isolated from the seeds of Rheum maximowiczii Losinsk (Polygonaceae). Its structure was elucidated from the 2D NMR and other spectral evidence. Several of these compounds were screened for cytokine-inducing activity on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The cytokine-inducing activity of some of the isolated compounds is also reported.


Alkyl Gallates, Intensifiers of ß-Lactam Susceptibility in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

We found that ethyl gallate purified from a dried pod of tara (Caesalpinia spinosa) intensified beta-lactam susceptibility in methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA and MSSA strains, respectively). This compound and several known alkyl gallates were tested with MRSA and MSSA strains to gain new insights into their structural functions in relation to antimicrobial and beta-lactam susceptibility-intensifying activities. The maximum activity of alkyl gallates against MRSA and MSSA strains occurred at 1-nonyl and 1-decyl gallate, with an MIC at which 90% of the isolates tested were inhibited of 15.6 microg/ml. At concentrations lower than the MIC, alkyl gallates synergistically elevated the susceptibility of MRSA and MSSA strains to beta-lactam antibiotics. Such a synergistic activity of the alkyl gallates appears to be specific for beta-lactam antibiotics, because no significant changes were observed in the MICs of other classes of antibiotics examined in this study. The length of the alkyl chain was also associated with the modifying activity of the alkyl gallates, and the optimum length was C5 to C6. The present work clearly demonstrates that the length of the alkyl chain has a key role in the elevation of susceptibility to beta-lactam antibiotics.


Effects of triterpene saponins from Astragalus species on in vitro cytokine release

Roots of Astragalus species are used to treat leukemia and for wound healing in Turkish folk medicine. In order to evaluate this information, the effect of 13 cycloartane- and 1 oleanan-type triterpene saponins isolated from Turkish species (Astragalus brachypterus, Astragalus cephalotes, Astragalus microcephalus, and Astragalus trojanus), as well as methanol extracts from the roots of three Astragalus species (Astragalus cephalotes, Astragalus oleifolius and Astragalus trojanus) were studied. Cytokine concentrations of interleukins IL-1beta, IL-8 and TNF-alpha after bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and IL-2, IL-4 and INF-gamma after phorbolacetate (PHA) stimulation were determined using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. All triterpene saponins tested in the present study showed a prominent IL-2 inducing activity between 35.9% and 139.6%. Among the extracts the highest score was obtained for Astragalus oleifolius (141.2%). Glycosides of 20,24-epoxy and 20,25-epoxy cycloartanes showed higher IL-2 inducing activity than those of acyclic-cycloartane derivatives as well as aglycone of 20,24-epoxy cycloartanes, cycloastrogenol. Especially the activity of Astragaloside VII, a tridesmosidic glycoside of cycloastrogenol, was the most remarkable. The oleanan-type triterpene saponin also showed a prominent IL-2 inducing activity. IL-2 is a cytokine produced by activated T cells, which has shown powerful immunostimulatory and antineoplastic properties. Accordingly, the IL-2 inducing activity of the triterpene saponins might be the mechanism involved in order to explain the immunomodulatory and anticancer effects of Astragalus species.


Novel antioxidants isolated from plants of the genera Ferula, Inula, Prangos and Rheum collected in Uzbekistan

We examined the effects of 48 compounds isolated from Ferula pallida, F. penninervis, Inula macrophylla, Prangos pabularia, P. tschimganica and Rheum maximowiczii collected in Uzbekistan on ADP/Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation of egg yolk phosphatidylcholine liposomes. Of those compounds, 23 inhibited ADP/Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation and nine showed especially strong inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Most compounds that inhibited peroxidation scavenged the 1,1'-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, indicating that the inhibition was due to radical scavenging. However, some compounds did not scavenge DPPH but inhibited lipid peroxidation significantly, suggesting that their inhibitory effect was not due to radical scavenging but to some other mechanism, such as prevention of Fe2+ function. Thus, we found various new antioxidants, some of which had a unique mechanism of action, in Ferula, Inula, Prangos and Rheum plants collected in Uzbekistan as seeds used in medicine.


Chemical Constituents from the Colombian Medicinal Plant Maytenus laevis

The methanol extract of the bark of the Colombian medicinal plant Maytenus laevis gave six new compounds and 28 known compounds. The structures of the new and known compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. Several of these compounds were screened for cytokine-inducing activity on human PBMCs to investigate antitumor effects, and canophyllol (12) demonstrated the most effective induction of the cytokines.


The ethyl acetate soluble fraction of a MeOH extract of the dried stems and roots of Capsicum annum gave 10 new sesquiterpenoids (1-10) and nine known compounds. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. The isolated new compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities.


Prenylated Benzophenones and Xanthones from Hypericum scabrum

Two new polyprenylated benzophenones, a new polyprenylated phloroglucinol, and six new xanthone derivatives were isolated from the aerial parts of the Uzbekistan medicinal plant Hypericum scabrum. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. The isolated compounds showed moderate cytotoxicity for human tumor cells.


Cucurbita-5,23-diene-3β,25-diol from Sicana odorifera

The spectral data of a new triterpene, cucurbita-5,23-diene-3beta,25-diol, isolated from the seeds of Sicana odorifera, are reported.


Kaurane and abietane diterpenoids from Tripterygium doianum (Celastraceae)

Extraction of Tripterygium doianum (Celastraceae) afforded five new diterpenoids and 11 known diterpenoids belonging to the ent-kaurane and abietane families. Their structures were established based on spectroscopic studies. The isolated compounds showed moderate cytotoxicity against human tumor cell assays.


Sugar Constituents from the Roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon


New Stilbene Derivatives from Calligonum leucocladum

Two new stilbene derivatives, (E)-resveratrol 3-(6' '-galloyl)-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (1) and (E)-resveratrol 3-(4' '-acetyl)-O-beta-D-xylopyranoside (2), and five known stilbene derivatives (3-7) were isolated from the dried aerial parts of Calligonum leucocladum. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. Compound 1 showed antioxidant activity and a restorative effect of the inhibition of oxacillin to oxacillin/methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.


Folk medicine in Uzbekistan: I. Toshkent, Djizzax, and Samarqand provinces

Uzbekistan is one of the Turcic republics in Central Asia where a desert continental climate mainly prevails in territories. Nevertheless, this expedition was carried out in the northeast and east higher lands, where flora is richer. The interviews were performed in seven villages of Toshkent and in neighboring provinces of Samarqand, Djizzax and at Urgut Bazaar of Samarqand. Altogether 177 folk remedies were recorded in the surveyed area. Among these folk remedies, 162 remedies were obtained from 79 different kinds of plant species that belong to 31 different families, whereas, 15 animal originated remedies that belong to 8 different animals are listed, which includes their vernacular and scientific names, indications and recipes for preparations.


Immunosuppressive Diterpenes from Veronicastrum sibiricum

Two new diterpenes, named sibiriquinone A (1) and B (2), along with four known diterpenes have been isolated from the aerial part of Veronicastrum sibiricum. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopy. The isolated compounds showed significant immunosuppressive activities.


Two lignan dimers from bamboo stems (Phyllostachys edulis)

Phyllostadimers A and B, two bis-lignans in which the two lignan units are directly connected by a C-C bond, were isolated from stems of bamboo, Phyllostachys edulis. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectral evidence. In addition, 14 known compounds were also obtained throughout the investigation. Phyllostadimer A significantly inhibited liposomal lipid peroxidation.


Apoptosis Induction in HL-60 Cells and Inhibition of Topoisomerase II by Triterpene Celastrol

Celastrol, which is a triterpene purified from Celastraceae plants, has anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study we investigated to clarify whether celastrol can induce apoptosis in a human leukemia HL-60 model system. Celastrol was found to induce apoptosis, and the rank order of the potency of celastrol and its derivatives to induce internucleosomal DNA fragmentation was found to be celastrol>cela-H>the other derivatives=vehicle control. Many anticancer agents are known to possess the ability to inhibit topoisomerase II, so the inhibitory activities of celastrol and its derivatives on topoisomerase II were also explored. The rank order of the inhibitory activity was found to be celastrol>etoposide>cela-H, indicating that the apoptosis-inducing activities of cela derivatives correspond to their inhibitory activities on topoisomerase II. These data suggested that celastrol may cause its effects such as anticancer activity by the mechanism of apoptosis along with topoisomerase II inhibition.

Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry


Antioxidant Activity of a New Capsaicin Derivative from Capsicum annuum

A new capsaicin derivative, 6' ',7' '-dihydro-5',5' "-dicapsaicin (1), and a known capsaicin metabolite, omega-hydroxycapsaicin (2),(1) were isolated from the fruit of Capsicum annuum. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. Compound 1 showed almost the same antioxidant activity as capsaicin, but did not have a pungent taste.


Sesquiterpenoids from Artemisia tenuisecta

From the aerial part of Artemisia tenuisecta Nevski (Asteraceae) a new sesquiterpene along with 16 known sesquiterpenoides were isolated. Its relative structure was elucidated as 1α-acetoxyeudesm- 4,5-expoxy-6β,11βH-12,6-olide from the 2D NMR and other spectral evidence.


中国製ダイエット食品により肝障害·甲状腺中毒症を示した症例

中国製ダイエット食品により肝障害·甲状腺中毒症を示した症例


Sesquiterpenoids from Artemisia gilvescens and an Anti-MRSA Compound

A new secoguaianolide sesquiterpene (1) was isolated along with its three stereoisomers (2-4) from the nonmedicinal plant Artemisia gilvescens. The structure of 1 was elucidated to be (4S,5S)-dihydro-5-[(1R,2S)-2-hydroxy-2-methyl-5-oxo-3-cyclopenten-1-yl]-3-methylene-4-(3-oxobutyl)-2(3H)-furanone on the basis of 2D NMR and other spectroscopic evidence. Five known sesquiterpenoids were also isolated from this plant, and one of them (5) showed activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).


The ethyl acetate soluble extract of the dried roots of Ferula penninervis gave 17 new sesquiterpenes [15 of the guaiane-type, ferupennins A-O (1-15), and two of the eudesmane-type, 1alpha-hydroxy-2-oxo-5alpha,7beta,11betaH-eudesm-3-en-6alpha,12-olide (16) and penninervin (17)] and nine known sesquiterpenes. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and X-ray analysis. The absolute configuration of ferupennin A (1) was determined by a modified Mosher method.


Polysulfide Derivatives from Ferula foetida

The ethyl acetate-soluble fraction from a methanol extract of Ferula foetida has afforded six new sulfide derivatives, (E)-3-methylsulfinyl-2-propenyl sec-butyl disulfide (foetisulfide A) (1), (Z)-3-methylsulfinyloxy-2-propenyl sec-butyl disulfide (foetisulfide B) (2), (E)-3-methylsulfinyloxy-2-propenyl sec-butyl disulfide (foetisulfide C) (3), bis(3-methylthio-2E-propenyl) disulfide (foetisulfide D) (4), 3,4,5-trimethyl-2-thiophenecarboxylic acid (foetithiophene A) (5), 3,4,5-trimethyl-2-(methylsulfinyloxymethyl)thiophene (foetithiophene B) (6), along with six known compounds. The structures of 1-6 were established on the basis of spectroscopic studies, with the elucidation of 5 confirmed by single-crystal X-ray crystallography.


A new megastigmane glucoside from Phlomis spinidens

A new megastigmane glucoside, phlomisionoside (1) was isolated from the aerial parts of Phlomis spinidens and the structure was elucidated by spectroscopic and chemical analyses.

ウズベキスタン産しそ科植物Phlomis spinidensの微量成分を検索し，phlomisionosideと命名したメガスチグマン配糖体を単離し，その化学構造を明らかにした．


Terpenoids from Tripterygium doianum (Celastraceae)

The extract of Tripterygium doianum (Celastraceae) afforded three triterpenoids [3beta-acetoxy-11-ursen-13alpha,30-olide, 25-chloro-24-hydroxytirucall-7-en-3-one and tirucall-7-en-3,24-dione], two sesquiterpenoids [5alpha-acetoxy-1beta,8alpha-bis-cinnamoyl-4alpha-hydroxydihydroagarofuran and 5alpha-acetoxy-1beta-benzoyl-8alpha-cinnamoyl-4alpha-hydroxydihydroagarofuran] and nine known triterpenoids. Their structures were established based on spectroscopic studies.


An Unusual Sesquiterpene Derivative from Ferula Kuhistanica

Ferula Kuhistanicaより単離したセスキテルペン誘導体の構造決定と活性を明らかにした．


Human platelet aggregation inhibitors from thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.)


Coumarins and γ-pyrone derivatives from Prangos pabularia: antibacterial activity and inhibition of cytokine release


Benzoylphloroglucinol Derivatives from Hypericum scabrum

Nine new polyprenylated benzoylphloroglucinol derivatives, hyperibones A-I (1-9), were isolated from the aerial parts of the Uzbekistan medicinal plant Hypericum scabrum. Their structures were determined mainly on the basis of spectroscopic evidence (2D NMR and HRMS). Compounds 1, 2, and 4 showed mild in vitro antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistance Staphylococus aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococus aureus (MSSA).


Chemical Constituents from the Colombian Medicinal Plant Niphogeton ternata

Two coumarins and one polyacetylene, 5-O-(3-chloro-2-hydroxy-3-methylbutyl)-8-methoxypsoralen(1), 2', 3'-dihydro-jatamansin(2), and 10-chloro-1-heptadecene-4, 6-diyne-3, 8, 9-triol(3), along with 15 known compounds(4-18), were isolated from the methanol extract of Niphogeton ternata. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopy.


Immunosuppressive constituents from Saussurea medusa

The methanol extract of Saussurea medusa Maxim afforded two lignans: 2alpha-guaicyl-4-oxo-6alpha-catechyl-3,7-dioxabicyclo [3.3.0]octane and 1alpha-hydroxy-2alpha,4alpha-guaicyl-3,7-dioxabicyclo[3.3.0]octane; two chlorophyll derivatives: 13-epi-phaeophorbide-a and 13-epi-phaeophorbide-a methyl ester; one megastigmane derivative: 3beta-hydroxy-5alpha,6alpha-epoxy-7-megastigmen-9-one, along with 19 known compounds. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic studies.


竹酢液によるイチゴおよびキュウリの数種病害に対する防除効果

竹酢液によるイチゴおよびキュウリの数種病害に対する防除効果

竹酢液をイチゴおよぴキュウリに散布し，数種病害に対する発病抑制効果を検討した．イチゴでは，うどんこ病に対する10倍液散布で防除効果が若干認められたが，葉先や葉裏が局部的に黒変する薬害が発生した．炭疽病，輪斑病に対する50倍液の散布効果はほとんど認められなかった． キュウリではうどんこ病に対する50倍液散布で防除効果が明瞭に認められたが，べと病に対する効果は低かった．また炭疽病，褐斑病に対する効果は全く認められなかった．


The antioxidant activity of the extracts and fractions from Carduus nutans L.

Gazi Universitesi Eczacilik Fakultesi Dergisi


A bis-sesquiterpene and sesquiterpenolides from Inula macrophylla

Macrophyllidimer C, a novel bis-sesquiterpene, in which the two sesquiterpene units are directly connected by a C-C bond, and eight other sesquiterpenolides were obtained from the bark of Inula macrophylla. Seven of these, macrophyllilactones A-G, are new eudesmanolide- and elemanolide-type sesquiterpenes. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and chemical reaction.


Sesquiterpenoids from the fruits of Ferula kuhistanica and antibacterial activity of the constituents of F. kuhistanica

Ethyl acetate extracts of the air-dried fruits of Ferula kuhistanica afforded three daucane esters: kuhistanicaol H, I and J, together with nine other known compounds. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic evidence. Isolated compounds in this paper and previously reported compounds from the roots and stems of F. kuhistanica were tested for antibacterial activity. Some of them were selectively toxic against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA and MRSA).


Immunosuppressive terpenoids from extracts of Tripterygium wilfordii


Phlomisflavosides A and B, new flavonol diglycosides from Phlomis spinidens

ウズベキスタン産シソ科植物Phlomis spinidensの配糖体成分を検索し，新フラボノールdiglycosides,phlomisflavosides A, Bを単離し，その化学構造を明らかにした．


Chemical Constituents of Prangos tschimganica; Structure Elucidation and Absolute Configuration of Coumarin and Furanocoumarin Derivatives with Anti-HIV Activity

The methanol extract of the dried aerial parts of Prangos tschimganica gave three new coumarin derivatives and 30 known coumarin derivatives. Their structures were established on the basis of chemical and spectroscopic evidence. Absolute configuration of the isolated compounds were determined by using a modified Mosher's method. Some of the isolated compounds showed anti-HIV activity.


Farnesyl Hydroxybenzoic Acid Derivatives from Ferula kuhistanica

Four new farnesyl hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives, kuhistanols E-H(1-4), were isolated from the roots of the Uzbekistan medicinal plant Ferula kuhistanica. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated based on spectroscopic and chemical evidence.


A new neoclerodane diterpenoid from Scutellaria hematochlora

ウズベキスタン産シソ科植物Scutellaria hematochloraからneoclerodan型新ジテルペンを単離しその化学構造を明らかにした．


Four new limonoid derivatives, 1-O-methylichangensin(1), sudachinoid A(2), B(3), and C(4)were isolated from the seeds of Citrus sudachi, together with the known compounds ichangensin, obacunone, obacunoic acid and limonin, and the structures of the new compounds were elucidated based on spectroscopic and chemical evidence.


Sesquiterpenes and Monoterpenes from the Bark of Inula macrophylla

Eleven new sesquiterpenes (1--11) and two thymol derivatives (12, 13), along with 12 known sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes, were isolated from the bark of Inula macrophylla. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectral evidence (especially by HREIMS and 2D NMR) as well as chemical transformations. The structure of macrophyllic acid A (1) was confirmed by X-ray analysis, and the absolute configuration of 1 was determined on the basis of the appropriate chemical conversions and the application of a modified Mosher's method.


IN VITRO INHIBITORY EFFECTS OF DAPHNE OLEOIDES SSP. OLEOIDES ON INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES AND ACTIVITY-GUIDED ISOLATION OF ACTIVE CONSTITUENTS


Terpenoids and γ-pyrone derivatives from Prangos tschimganica

The methanol extract of the dried aerial parts of Prangos tschimganica afforded seven monoterpenoids and four gamma-pyrone derivatives. Their structures were established on the basis of chemical and spectroscopic evidence.


Sesquiterpene polyol esters from Tripterygium wilfordii

The extract (T(II)) of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f. afforded four sesquiterpene esters: 1beta,2beta,5alpha,8beta,11-pentaacetoxy-4alpha-hydroxy-3alpha(2'-methylbutanoyl)-15-nicotinoyl-7-oxo-dihydroagarofuran; 1beta,5alpha,11-triacetoxy-7beta-benzoyl-4alpha-hydroxy-8beta-nicotinoyl-dihydroagarofuran; 1beta,2beta,5alpha,11-tetraacetoxy-8alpha-benzoyl-4alpha-hydroxy-7beta-nicotinoyl-dihydroagarofuran; 5alpha-benzoyl-4alpha-hydroxy-1beta,8alpha-dinicotinoyl-dihydro- agarofuran as well as one other known sesquiterpene ester. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic studies.


Phenylbutanoids and stilbene derivatives of Rheum maximowiczii

The methanol extract of the dried roots of Rheum maximowiczii afforded four phenylbutanoid and two stilbene derivatives. Their structures were established on the basis of chemical and spectroscopic studies.


Traditional medicine in Turkey X. Folk medicine in Central Anatolia

Traditional medicine used in Central Anatolia; Ankara, Kayseri, Niğde and south-eastern parts of Karaman and Konya provinces have been studied. Two hundred and ninety one folk remedies obtained from 103 plant species belonging to 40 families and 4 animal species are reported with their vernacular names, parts used, methods of preparing remedies and therapeutic usage.

トルコ共和国中央Anatolia地方の伝統薬について現地調査し，その起源植物名，伝統的な用法などについて報告した．


Immunosuppressive Sesquiterpene Alkaloids from Tripterygium wilfordii

Nine new sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloids [wilfornines A (1), B (2), C (3), D (4), E (5), F (8), and G (9); wilfordinines I (6) and J (7)] and six known compounds (10-15) were isolated from a clinically used extract (T(II)) of Tripterygium wilfordii. The structures of 1-9 were elucidated by spectroscopic and chemical methods. The inhibitory effects on cytokine production of 1-3 and several related compounds were evaluated. Compounds 10 and 14 showed significant inhibitory effects on cytokine production.


Phenylnaphthalene Compounds from the Subterranean Part of Vitex rotundifolia and Their Antibacterial Activity Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

A careful investigation of the subterranean part of Vitex rotundifolia has shown that this plant contains five novel lignans having a 1-phenylnaphthalene-type skeleton together with four known lignans. These structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data. Furthermore, some of the isolated compounds showed antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).


Isolation and characterization of free radical scavenging flavonoid glycosides from the flowers of Spartium junceum by activity-guided fractionation

Spartium junceum L. (Fabaceae) flowers are used for the treatment of peptic ulcers in Turkish folk medicine. The possible superoxide dismutase-like activity of the extracts, fractions and constituents obtained through activity-guided fractionation were studied by using in vitro electron spin resonance spectrometry, in order to explain the role of antioxidant principles in the potent antiulcerogenic activity of the extract. Despite the fact that the triterpene, spartitrioside, which was previously reported as the active antiulcerogenic constituent of the flowers was found almost inactive, the flavonoid-rich fractions showed potent antioxidant activity. Five flavonoid glycosides bearing catechol structure in ring B were isolated from the butanol extract and their structures were elucidated using 1H- and 13C-NMR techniques as isoquercitrin (quercetin 3beta-glucoside) (1,); luteolin 4'beta-glucoside (2); quercetin 3, 4'-diglucoside (3); azaleatin 3beta-glucoside (quercetin 5-methylether 3beta-glucoside) (4), quercetin 4'beta-glucoside (5). Flavonoids (2) and (4) showed the highest in vitro antioxidant activity with 22.59 and 19.08 U/ml, respectively.


Sesquiterpenoids from Ferula kuhistanica

Methanol extracts of the air-dried roots and stems of Ferula kuhistanica afforded seven daucane-type sesquiterpenes, called kuhistanicaol A-G, together with 13 known daucane esters. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and the results of chemical reactions.


Labdane diterpenoids from Marrubium globosum ssp. globosum

トルコ産薬用植物Marrubium globosum ssp. globosumのジテルペン成分について検索し，labdane 骨格を有する新微量成分を単離しその化学構造を明らかにした．


Anti-ulcerogenic effects of Spartium junceum flowers on in vivo test models in rats

Flowers of Spartium junceum L. (Fabaceae) are used for the treatment of gastric ulcers in Turkish folk medicine. Through bioassay-guided fractionation using chemical and chromatographical means and water immersion and restraint-induced stress ulcer model in rats, a saponin fraction was determined as the potent anti-ulcerogenic ingredient. The active fraction was also highly effective in preventing ethanol- and pyloric ligation-induced gastric lesions as well as inhibiting gastric secretion volume, gastric pH and titratable acidity, but did not affect the hexosamine content of the gastric mucosa. A novel oleanen-type triterpenic saponin, named as spartitrioside, was isolated as the active principle by using chromatographical separation techniques.


Triterpenoids from Tripterygium wilfordii

The extract (T(II)) of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook f. afforded four triterpenoids: wilforic acid D (3beta,24-epoxy-2alpha-hydroxy-24R*-ethoxy-29-friedelanoic acid); (E) 3beta,24-epoxy-2-oxo-3alpha-hydroxy-29-friedelanoic acid; (F) 2beta-hydroxy-3-oxo-friedelan-29-oic acid; 29-hydroxy-3-oxo-olean-12-en-28-oic acid and 17 known triterpenoids. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic studies. In a bioactivity analysis, only the known dulcioic acid compound showed a significant inhibitory effect on cytokine production.


The structures and absolute configurations of macrophyllic acids A E, five new rearranged eudesmane sesquiterpene acids from the bark of Inula macrophylla


Sesquiterpene Phenylpropanoid and Sesquiterpene Chromone Derivatives from Ferula pallida

Four novel compounds-two sesquiterpene phenylpropanoid derivatives, pallidones G (1) and H (2), and two sesquiterpene chromone derivatives, pallidones I (3) and J (4)-have been isolated from the roots of Ferula pallida. Their structures were determined on the basis of NMR and HREIMS evidence.


Phlorigidosides A-C, iridoid glucosides from Phlomis rigida

From the aerial parts of Phlomis rigida, three iridoid glucosides, phlorigidoside A (2-O-acetyllamiridoside), B (8-O-acetyl-6-beta-hydroxyipolamide) and C (5-deoxysesamoside), were isolated together with the known iridoid glucosides, shanzhiside methyl ester, 8-O-acetylshanzhiside methyl ester, deoxypulcheloside I, lamiridoside, and 6-beta-hydroxyipolamide. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated based on spectral and chemical evidence.

トルコ産Phlomis rigida地上部の配糖体成分を検索し，5種の既知物質とともに3種の新イリドイド配糖体を単離しその化学構造を明らかにした．


Terpenoids from Tripterigyum hypoglaucum

Six terpenoids have been isolated from the root bark of Tripterygium hypoglaucum, along with 14 known compounds. The structures of the terpenoids were elucidated as 3,11,14-oxo-abieta-8,12-diene, 3beta-hydroxy-12,14-dimethoxyabieta-8,11,13-triene, 3beta-hydroxy-11alpha-ethoxyurs-12-ene, 3beta-hydroxy-11alpha-methoxyurs-12-ene, 3beta-hydroxy-11alpha-methoxyolean-12-ene-28-oic acid, and 1beta-benzoyl-8alpha-cinnamoyl-4alpha,5alpha- dihydroxydihydroagarofuran.


Coumarins and bicoumarin from Ferula sumbul: anti-HIV activity and inhibition of cytokine release

The methanol extract of the dried roots of Ferula sumbul afforded two furanocoumarin esters, fesumtuorin A, B, one bicoumarin, fesumtuorin C, five spirobicoumarins, fesumtuorin D, E, F, G and H, along with nineteen known coumarins. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic studies. Some of the isolated compounds showed anti-HIV activity and very weak inhibition of cytokine release.


Sesquiterpene Alkaloids from Tripterygium hypoglaucum and Tripterygium wilfordii: A New Class of Potent Anti-HIV Agents

Five new sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloids [triptonines A (1) and B (2), and wilfordinines A (3), B (4), and C (5)] and two known compounds (peritassine A and hypoglaunine C) were isolated from Tripterygium hypoglaucum and a clinically used extract of Tripterygium wilfordii. The structures of 1-5 were elucidated by spectroscopic methods. The anti-HIV activity of 1, 2, and several related compounds was evaluated. Triptonine B (2) demonstrated potent anti-HIV activity with an EC(50) value of <0.10 microg/mL and an in vitro therapeutic index value of >1000.


Prenylated Benzoic Acid Derivatives from Ferula kuhistanica

Four new prenylated benzoic acid derivatives, kuhistanols A-D (1-4), along with one known compound, 3-farnesyl-p-hydroxybenzoic acid (5), have been isolated from the roots of the Uzbekistan medicinal plant, Ferula kuhistanica. Their structures were established on the basis of chemical and spectral evidence. Compound 4 showed a significant inhibitory effect on cytokine production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human peripheral mononuclear cells.


Macrophyllidimers A and B, two novel sesquiterpene dimers from the bark of Inula macrophylla


Macrophyllols A and B, Two Unusual Novel Sesquiterpene and Monoterpene Dimers from the Bark of Inula macrophylla

[structure: see text] Two novel sesquiterpene and monoterpene dimers, macrophyllols A (1) and B (2), were isolated from the bark of Inula macrophylla. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectral evidence (especially HREIMS and 2D NMR) as well as chemical transformation. The structure of macrophyllol A (1) was confirmed by X-ray analysis. The possible biosynthetic pathways of macrophyllols A (1) and B (2) are discussed.


Sesquiterpene Coumarins and Related Derivatives from Ferula pallida

Six new compounds-two sesquiterpene coumarins, pallidones A and B (1, 2), and four related derivatives, pallidones C-F (3-6), as well as two known sesquiterpene coumarins, feselol (7) and conferol (8), have been isolated from the EtOAc extracts of the roots of Ferula pallida. All structures of these compounds were determined on the basis of spectral evidence, especially 2D NMR ((1)H-(1)H COSY, HSQC, HMBC, and NOESY) and HRMS. The possible biosynthetic pathway of pallidones C-F (3-6) is discussed.


Peptidic immunosuppressants from the fungus Trichoderma polysporum

Three new 10-residue lipopeptaibols, trichopolyns III-V have been isolated from the fungus Trichoderma polysporum together with the known trichopolyns I and II. Structure determination has been achieved on the basis of spectroscopic and chemical evidence. These peptides have been shown to suppress the proliferation of lymphocytes in mouse allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters


Morinols A-L, twelve novel sesquineolignans and neolignans with a new carbon skeleton from morina chinensis


Morinols A and B, Two Novel Tetrahydropyran Sesquineolignans with a New Carbon Skeleton from Morina chinensis


Terpenoids and aromatic compounds from Daphne oleoides ssp. oleoides


Aryl naphthalenes norlignans from Vitex rotundifolia


Sesquiterpene evoninate alkaloids from Tripterygium hypoglaucum


Morinins L-P, Five New Phenylpropanol Derivatives from Morina chinensis


Sesquiterpene Alkaloids from Extracts of Tripterygium wilfordii


Immunosuppressive Diterpenoids from Tripterygium wilfordii

A clinically used extract of Tripterygium wilfordii afforded three new diterpenoids-3beta,19-dihydroxyabieta-8,11,13-triene (triptobenzene L) (1); 12,19-dihydroxy-3-oxoabieta-8,11,13-triene (triptobenzene M) (2); and 19-hydroxy-3,7-dioxo-abieta-8,11, 13-triene (triptobenzene N) (3)-along with 14 known diterpenoids. The structures of 1-3 were established on the basis of spectroscopic studies. Of the known compounds, the stereochemistry at C-4 of triptonediol (4) was reassigned. Tripterifordin (8) and 13-epi-manoyl oxide-18-oic acid (9) showed significant inhibitory effects on cytokine production.


Phenylpropanol Derivatives from Morina chinensis

Seven new phenylpropanol derivatives, named morinins A-G (1-7), along with five known compounds, 4-O-methylcinnamyl alcohol, 4-O-methylcinnamyl methyl ether, 4-O-methylcinnamyl acetate, p-methoxybenzaldehyde, and 4-O-methyl-(E)-coniferyl alcohol, have been isolated from the roots of the medicinal Chinese plant, Morina chinensis. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectral data, especially 2D NMR and HRMS.


Morinins H-K, Four Novel Phenylpropanol Ester Lipid Metabolites from Morina chinensis

The medicinal plant, Morina chinensis, afforded four novel phenylpropanol ester lipid metabolites, named morinins H-K (1-4). Their structures were identified on the basis of spectral data interpretation.


Secoiridoid glycosides from Gentiana olivierii

ウズベキスタン産薬用植物Gentiana olivieri全草の成分について検討を加え，7種の既知セコイリドイド配糖体を同定すると共に，3種の新苦味セコイリドイド配糖体を単離しその化学構造を明らかにした．


A saponin with anti-ulcerogenic effect from the flowers of Spartium junceum

A new oleanene-type saponin with potent anti-ulcerogenic activity was isolated from the flowers of Spartium junceum. The various techniques of NMR spectral analysis, viz. 1H, 13C, DEPT, C-H COSY, H-H COSY, COLOC, NOESY, HMBC, HMQC, in conjunction with EI- and FAB-mass spectrometry, revealed that the structure of the isolated saponin was 3-O-[alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1-->2) -O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-->2)-beta-D-glucuronopyranosyl]-3 beta,16beta,22 beta,24-tetrahydroxy-olean-12-ene and named as spartitrioside.


Triterpene caffeoyl esters and diterpenes from Celastrus stephanotifolius


Novel sesquiterpene esters with alkaloid and monoterpene and related compounds from Tripterygium hypoglaucum: A new class of potent anti-HIV agents


Traditional medicine in Turkey IX. Folk medicine in north west Anatolia

Folk medicine in northwest Anatolia has been studied and 116 remedies prepared from 67 plant and 8 animal species are described, each with vernacular names, methods of preparation and traditional uses.

トルコ共和国西北Anatolia地方の伝統薬について調査し，その起源植物，用法などについて報告した．


Rearranged abietane-type diterpenes from Salvia dichroantha


Structures of sesquiterpene polyol alkaloids from Tripterygium hypoglaucum


Antiaggregant effects on human platelets of culinary herbs


Terpenoids in Transformed Root Culture of Tripterygium Wilfordii


Terpenoids in transformed root culture of Tripterygium wilfordii

Investigation of a hairy root culture of Tripterygium wilfordii var. regelii transformed with Agrobacterium rhizogenes resulted in the isolation of new diterpenoid and sesquiterpenoid together with known triterpenoids. These structures were determined by spectroscopic analyses.


Three β-coumaranones from Sparaxis tricolor


Effects of the Turkish subspecies of Viscum album on macrophage-derived cytokines

Viscum album L. herbs are used for the treatment of various diseases. Apart from their immunostimulatory, antitumor, and hypotension inducing activities, anti-inflammatory effects has also been recorded in the literature. Since the immunostimulatory activity of mistletoe is mainly attributed to a stimulation of the mononuclear phagocytic system and to an induction of inflammation by macrophage-derived cytokines, utilization based on anti-inflammatory activity seems in contrast with its use as immunostimulant. The inhibitory effects of 80% ethanol extracts and subfractions obtained by petroleum ether, diethylether, ethylacetate and n-butanol from three Turkish subspecies of V. album L. (ssp. album, ssp. abietis, ssp. austriacum) against interleukins (IL-1alpha and IL-1beta) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were studied. Ethanolic (80%) extracts of all three subspecies exhibited almost no significant inhibitory activity on the proinflammatory cytokines, at least in the concentrations applied in this study. In contrast, they induce a concentration dependent stimulation of these cytokines. On the other hand, moderate to weak, dose dependent inhibitory effects were observed on fractionation, which may be attributed to the existence of less polar components with anti-inflammatory activity. Based on our results, it was concluded that the utilization of ethanol extracts for anti-inflammatory purposes would not be beneficial probably due to the partial extraction of the low-molecular-weight polypeptides, i.e. viscotoxins, which induce an inflammatory response. Moreover, for anti-inflammatory effects, extracts of Viscum album ssp. austriacum may be preferred, since higher inhibitory ratios were obtained against inflammatory cytokines than with the other two subspecies.


Biological Activity of the Triterpene Celastrol : Analysis from the Viewpoint of the Apoptosis Induction

Technical Bulletein of Faculty of Agriculture


A novel epoxy-triterpene and nortriterpene from callus cultures of Tripterygium wilfordii


Benzoquinones Inhibit the Expression of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase Gene`

Benzoquinones inhibited the production of NO induced by LPS and gamma-IFN in C6 glia cells. The mechanistic studies showed that benzoquinones inhibited the expression of iNOS mRNA through inactivation of NF kappa B. Benzoquinones may be a useful candidate for the development of a drug to treat disease due to iNOS gene over-expression.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications


Di- and triterpenoids from Tripterygium hypoglaucum


Inhibitory effects of Turkish folk remedies on inflammatory cytokines: interleukin-1α, interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor α


Triterpenoid inhibitors of interleukin-1 secretion and tumour-promotion from Tripterygium wilfordii var. regelii


Terpenoids from Tripterygium wilfordii var. regelii


Phenolic diterpenes from Tripterygium wilfordii var. regelii


Hydroxyphenylazoformamide derivatives from Calvatia craniformis


Sesquiterpene alkaloids from Tripterygium hypoglaucum and Tripterygium wilfordii: A New Class of Potent Anti-HIV Agents


A diterpenoid and triterpenes from tissue cultures of Tripterygium wilfordii


Traditional medicine in Turkey. VIII. Folk medicine in east Anatolia ; Erzurum, Erzincan, Agri, Kars, Igdir Provinces


Traditional medicine in Turkey VI. Folk medicine in West Anatolia: Afyon, Kütahya, Denizli, Muğla, Aydin provinces


Suppression of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase mRNA Expression by Tryptoquinone A

Triptoquinone A (TQA), which is an anti-inflammatory constituent in plants, was studied for its suppressive effect on nitric oxide production by LPS. TQA significantly suppressed smooth muscle relaxation and increase in cyclic GMP levels by nitric oxide (NO) in an L-arginine-induced relaxation experiment. The mechanistic studies showed that TQA did not directly inhibit NO radicals and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) enzyme but suppressed IL-1 beta and iNOS mRNA expression by LPS. The suppression level of iNOS gene expression by TQA was comparable to that by dexamethasone. TQA may be a useful candidate for the development of a drug as a potent inhibitor of iNOS gene over-expression.


Inhibition by triptoquinone-A of LPS- and IL-1β-primed induction of no synthase in rat thoracic aorta


Characterization of antiviral activity of a sesquiterpene, triptofordin C-2

The Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy


Cucurbitacin glycosides from Caput nigri


Cucurbitacin glycosides from cabeça-de-negro


Marrubinones A and B, New Labdane Diterpenoids from Marrubium astracanicum(Labiatae)


Traditional medicine in Turkey. VII: Folk medicine in middle and west Black Sea regions

トルコ共和国黒海中西部沿岸の伝統薬について現地調査し，起源植物，用法などについて記述した．


Nor-cucurbitacin glucosides from Caputo nigri


Structural basis of potent antiperoxidation activity of the triterpene celastrol in mitochondria: Effect of negative membrane surface charge on lipid peroxidation


Tripterygium wilfordii var. regelii which are interleukin-1 inhibitors


Synthetic studies on diterpenoid quinones with interleukin-1 inhibitory activity. Total synthesis of (.+-.)- and (+)-triptoquinone A


Fungal Metabolites X. The effect of Peptide Antibiotics, Trichosporins-Bs, on the Respiratory Activity of Mitochondria


Fungal Metabolites XV. Primary Structures of Antibiotic Peptides,Hypelcins B-I ,B-II ,B-III ,B-IV and B-V from Hypocrea peltata


Fungal metabolites. II. Structure elucidation of minor metabolites, valinotricin, cyclonerodiol oxide, and epicyclonerodiol oxide, from Trichoderma polysporum


つるぎ町一宇地区の民間薬調査

つるぎ町一宇地区の民間薬調査


三好市東祖谷地区の民間薬調査

三好市東祖谷地区の民間薬調査