bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two New C18-Diterpenoid Alkaloids from Delphinium anthriscifolium
Authors: Shan Lianhai , Zhang Jifa , Chen Lin , Wang Jiaxi , Huang Shuai , Zhou Xianli
Published: March 2019

Two new C18-diterpenoid alkaloids, anthriscifoltine A (1) and anthriscifoltine B (2), along with three known diterpenoid alkaloids, deoxydelcorine (3), anthriscifolcine A (4) and anthriscifolcine G (5), were isolated from the whole herbs of Delphinium anthriscifolium var. majus. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including 1D, 2D NMR, and HR-ESI-MS.
Majusine D: A New C19-diterpenoid Alkaloid from Delphinium majus
Authors: Zhao Qi , Gou Xiao-jun , Liu Wei , He Gang , Liang Li , Chen Feng-zheng
Published: March 2019

A new C19-diterpenoid alkaloid, designated as majusine D (1), has been isolated from Delphnium majus W. T. Wang. The structure was elucidated by detailed NMR-spectroscopic studies.
Epoxide Opening of a 7,17-Seco–7,8-Epoxy-C19-Diterpenoid Alkaloid
Authors: Ji Hong , Wang Feng-Peng , Chen Qiao-Hong
Published: March 2019

A new and effective approach toward epoxide opening of a 7,17- seco–7,8-epoxy-C19-diterpenoid alkaloid is herein described. The starting epoxide was prepared from naturally occurring yunnaconitine via a nine-step transformation. Treatment of this epoxide with trifluoroacetic anhydride in dioxane at 110oC followed by reduction with sodium boron hydride generated two epoxide opening compounds 7 and 8. Each of their structures is characteristic of a Δ8,15 bridgehead double bond and a 7β-oxygen-substituted group.
Monoterpenoid Indole Alkaloids from Catharanthus roseus Cultivated in Yunnan
Authors: Wang Bei , Liu Lu , Chen Ying-Ying , Li Qiong , Li Dan , Liu Ya-Ping , Luo Xiao-Dong
Published: March 2019

A new monoterpenoid indole alkaloid, 15,20-dehydro-3α-(2-oxopropyl) coronaridine (1), along with sixteen analogues (2–17) were isolated from the leaves of Catharanthus roseus cultivated in Yunnan. The new alkaloid was elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis, and the known alkaloids were identified by comparison with the reported spectroscopic data. Among them, alkaloid 16 was isolated from Catharanthus for the first time.
Two New Oxindole Alkaloid Glycosides from the Leaves of Nauclea officinalis
Authors: Fan Long , Huang Xiao-Jun , Fan Chun-Lin , Li Guo-Qiang , Wu Zhen-Long , Li Shuo-Guo , He Zhen-Dan , Wang Ying , Ye Wen-Cai
Published: March 2019

Two new oxindole alkaloid glycosides, nauclealomide A and (3 S,7 R)-javaniside, were isolated from the leaves of Nauclea officinalis. Their structures and absolute configurations were elucidated by means of NMR, HRESIMS, X-ray diffraction, acid hydrolysis and quantum chemical CD calculation. Nauclealomide A is a novel monoterpenoid oxindole alkaloid possessing a rare tetrahydro-2 H–1,3-oxazine ring.
Lycopodium Alkaloids from Diphasiastrum complanatum
Authors: Tang Yu , Xiong Juan , Hu Jin-Feng
Published: March 2019

One new lycopodine-type Lycopodium alkaloid, dehydroisofawcettiine N-oxide (1) and eleven known analogues (2–12) were isolated from the whole plant of Diphasiastrum complanatum. The new structure was established on the basis of spectroscopic methods, including 2D NMR techniques. The absolute configurations of 2 and its new N-oxide derivative (1) were deduced by chemical transformation combined with Cotton effects in their electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra.
Effects of Adding Vindoline and MeJA on Production of Vincristine and Vinblastine, and Transcription of their Biosynthetic Genes in the Cultured CMCs of Catharanthus roseus
Authors: Zhang Wenjin , Yang Jiazeng , Zi Jiachen , Zhu Jianhua , Song Liyan , Yu Rongmin
Published: March 2019

Vincristine and vinblastine were found by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) in Catharanthus roseus cambial meristem cells (CMCs) jointly treated with 0.25 mM vindolineand methyl jasmonate (MeJA), suggesting that C. roseus CMCs contain a complete set of the enzymes which are in response to convert vindoline into vincristine and vinblastine. Based on the facts that the transcript levels of vindoline-biosynthetic genes ( STR, SGD and D4H) were up-regulated instead of being down-regulated by adding itself to the culture, and that the transcriptional factor ORCA3 was up-regulated simultaneously, we further confirmed that the transcription of STR, SGD, D4H was manipulated by ORCA3.
Structures and Chemotaxonomic Significance of Stemona Alkaloids from Stemona japonica
Authors: Yi Min , Xia Xue , Wu Hoi-Yan , Tian Hai-Yan , Huang Chao , But Paul Pui-Hay , Shaw Pang-Chui , Jiang Ren-Wang
Published: March 2019

A pair of new alkaloid stereo-isomers, stemocochinin (1) and isostemocochinin (2), was obtained from the roots of Stemona japonica Miq., along with seven known alkaloids, stemonamine (3), isostemonamine (4), maistemonine (5), isomaistemonine (6), croomine (7), stemonine (8), and protostemonine (9). The complete structure and stereochemistry of the pair of isomers were established by extensive analysis of the spectral data. Furthermore, our results indicated that S. japonica is chemically closer to S. sessilifolia than S. tuberosa, which are consistent with our previous DNA study on Stemona species.
Phenolic Derivatives from Hypericum japonicum
Authors: Luo Guoyong , Zhou Min , Ye Qi , Mi Jun , Fang Dongmei , Zhang Guolin , Luo Yinggang
Published: March 2019

Three new acylphloroglucinol glycosides, hypericumols A - C, together with fifteen known phenolic derivatives, were isolated from the total phenolic extract of Hypericum japonicum. Hypericumols A, B, and C were characterized as 4,6-dimethyl-2-methylpropanoylphloroglucinol-1- O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), 4-methyl-2-methylpropanoylphloroglucinol-1- O-β-D-glucopyranoside (2), and (2′ S)-4,6-dimethyl-2-methylbutyrylphloroglucinol-1- O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), respectively, on the basis of spectroscopic data interpretation and chemical degradation reaction.
Compounds with Antifouling Activities from the Roots of Notopterygium franchetii
Authors: Yu Chun , Cheng Liqing , Zhang Zhongling , Zhang Yu , Yuan Chunmao , Liu Weiwei , Hao Xiaojiang , Ma Weiguang , He Hongping
Published: March 2019

In antifouling screening, the extract of Notopterygium franchetii de Boiss showed obvious activity. Two new phenylpropanoids (1–2) and five known coumarins (3-7) were isolated from the methanol extract of the roots of this species. The structures of the isolated compounds were determined on the basis of spectroscopic analysis. Compounds 1–2 showed definite antifouling activity against larval settlement of Bugula neritina.
New Isochromane Derivatives from the Mangrove Fungus Aspergillus ustus 094102
Authors: Liu Peipei , Wang Cong , Lu Zhenyu , Zhu Tonghan , Hong Kui , Zhu Weiming
Published: March 2019

Four new isochromane derivatives (1–4) along with the known peniciphenol (5) and ( R)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-3-(2-hydroxypropyl)phenol (6) were isolated from the EtOAc extract of the fermentation broth of the mangrove fungus, Aspergillus ustus 094102. The structures of the new compounds including the absolute configuration were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis, CD and ECD calculation. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited α-glucosidase inhibition and anti-oxidation against DPPH radical with IC50 values of 1.4 mM and 25.7 μM, respectively.
Pericocins A–D, New Bioactive Compounds from Periconia sp
Authors: Wu Yue-Hua , Xiao Gao-Keng , Chen Guo-Dong , Wang Chuan-Xi , Hu Dan , Lian Yun-Yang , Lin Feng , Guo Liang-Dong , Yao Xin-Sheng , Gao Hao
Published: March 2019

One new dihydroisocoumarin, pericocin A (1), one new chromone, pericocin B (2), and two new α-pyrone derivatives, pericocins C-D (3–4), together with two known compounds, 3-(2-oxo-2 H-pyran-6-yl)propanoic acid (5) and ( E)-3-(2-oxo-2 H-pyran-6-yl)acrylic acid (6), were isolated from the culture of the endolichenic fungus Periconia sp.. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods. All these compounds are derived from the polyketone biosynthetic pathway. Compound 1 was obtained as a mixture of enantiomers. The antimicrobial activity of compounds 1–5 was tested against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus niger, and Candida albicans. Compounds 1–5 showed moderate antimicrobial activity against A niger and weak activity against C. albicans.
New Benzenoids from the Roots of Lindera aggregata
Authors: Ma Guo-Hao , Lin Che-Wei , Hung Hsin-Yi , Wang Sheng-Yang , Shieh Po-Chuen , Wu Tian-Shung
Published: March 2019

Two new benzenoids, linderagatin A and B (1–2), were isolated from the roots of Lindera aggregata. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D (1H, 13C) and 2D NMR (COSY, NOESY, HSQC and HMBC) spectra. Moreover, their absolute configurations were established from ECD spectra compared with previous reports.
Phenylpropanoid Glycosides from the Leaves of Ananas comosus
Authors: Chen Wen-Hao , Huang Xiao-Juan , Shu Huo-Ming , Hui Yang , Guo Fei-Yan , Song Xiao-Ping , Ji Ming-Hui , Chen Guang-Ying
Published: March 2019

Two new phenylpropanoid glycosides, named β-D-(1- O-acetyl-3,6- O-diferuloyl) fructofuranosyl α-D-6′- O-acetylglucopyranoside (1) and β-D-(1- O-acetyl-3,6- O-diferuloyl) fructofuranosyl α-D-glucopyranoside (2), along with two known analogues (3–4) and four glycerides (5–8), were isolated from the EtOAc extract of the leaves of Ananas comosus. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D- and 2D-NMR analyses, as well as HR-ESI-MS experiments. Compounds 1–4 showed significant antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Tannins and Antioxidant Activities of the Walnut (Juglans regia) Pellicle
Authors: Yin Tian-Peng , Cai Le , Chen Yang , Li Ying , Wang Ya-Rong , Liu Chuan-Shui , Ding Zhong-Tao
Published: March 2019

The total phenolic content and antioxidant activities of the acetone extract and derived fractions from the walnut ( Juglans regia) pellicle were estimated. The BuOH fraction exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity with the highest phenolic content. A phytochemical investigation of this fraction led to the isolation of three tannins, 2,3-hexahydroxydiphenoylglucose (1), pedunculagin (2) and 2,3,4,6-tetragalloylglucose (3). Pedunculagin showed high content and powerful activity, which implied that this compound plays an important role in the antioxidant activity of the walnut pellicle.
Ligustrum lucidum and its Constituents: A Mini-Review on the Anti-Osteoporosis Potential
Authors: Che Chun-Tao , Wong Man-Sau
Published: March 2019

Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disorder commonly occurred in aging populations, particularly postmenopausal women and patients who undergo long-term steroid or anti-estrogen therapies. Given the rapid growth of the aging population, the prevalence of bone loss, and the huge medical and healthcare cost involved, demand for alternative approaches for the promotion of bone health is pressing. With the advent of global interest in complementary and alternative medicine and natural products, Chinese medicine serves as a viable source that offers benefits to improve and maintain bone health. This review summarizes the scientific information on the Chinese medicinal herb Ligustrum lucidum and its chemical components as potential therapy for osteoporosis.
Alice, Benzene, and Coffee: The ABCs of Ecopharmacognosy
Authors: Cordell Geoffrey A.
Published: March 2019

The sesquicentennial celebrations of the publication of “Alice's Adventures in Wonderland” and the structure of benzene offer a unique opportunity to develop a contemporary interpretation of aspects of Alice's adventures, illuminate the symbolism of benzene, and contextualize both with the globalization of coffee, transitioning to how the philosophy and sustainable practices of ecopharmacognosy may be applied to modulating approaches to the quality, safety, efficacy, and consistency (QSEC) of traditional medicines and dietary supplements through technology integration, thereby improving patient-centered health care.
Influence of Tanshinone IIA on the Apoptosis of Human Esophageal Ec-109 Cells
Authors: Zhu Yan-Qin , Wang Bai-Yan , Wu Fang , An Yong-Kang , Zhou Xin-Qiang
Published: March 2019

The induced-apoptosis effect and mechanism of human esophageal cancer Ec-109 cells via tanshinone IIA was investigated. The Ec-109 cells were cultured in vitro with different concentrations of tanshinone IIA (2 μg/mL, 4 μg/mL, or 8 μg/mL) for 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours. MTT assay was used to evaluate the proliferative inhibition rate of tanshinone IIA on esophageal Ec-109 cells. After 24 hours of culturing in vitro, a control group was assigned. The apoptosis rate was detected by the AO/EB and annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide assay, and the protein levels of Caspase-4 and CHOP were determined by the Western blot technique. MTT data showed that tanshinone IIA could significantly inhibit the proliferation of Ec-109 cells with a dose- and time- dependent mode. Compared with the control group, tanshinone IIA could apparently induce apoptosis of Ec-109 cells, and the level of Caspase-4 and CHOP ( p<0.01) obviously increased. Tanshinone IIA can significantly induce the apoptosis of Ec-109 cells, which may take effect by the stress pathway of the endoplasmic reticulum.
Trocheliolide B, a New Cembranoidal Diterpene from the Octocoral Sarcophyton Trocheliophorum
Authors: Liu Kuan-Ming , Lan Yu-Hsuan , Su Ching-Chyuan , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: March 2019

A new cembranoidal diterpene, trocheliolide B (1), was isolated from the octocoral Sarcophyton trocheliophorum. The structure of 1 was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods.
Anti-allergic Inflammatory Triterpenoids Isolated from the Spikes of Prunella Vulgaris
Authors: Choi Hyun Gyu , Kim Tae Hoon , Kim Sang-Hyun , Kim Jeong Ah
Published: March 2019

Twelve known triterpenoids (1–12) and two steroids (13 and 14) have been isolated from the spike of the plant Prunella vulgaris. Among them, 2α,3α,23-trihydroxyursa-12,20(30)-dien-28-oic acid (10) was isolated for the first time from this plant. All isolates were evaluated for their inhibitory effect on the gene expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and release of histamine in human mast cells. β-Amyrin (5), 10, and euscaphic acid (12) showed suppression of histamine release with percentage inhibitions of 46.7, 57.9, and 54.2%, respectively. In addition, 5 and 10 showed strong inhibition of TNF-α and IL-6 in the test for pro-inflammatory cytokines. Our results suggest that compounds 5 and 10 largely contribute to the anti-allergic inflammatory effect of P. vulgaris.
Inhibition of Alpha-Glucosidase by Synthetic Derivatives of Lupane, Oleanane, Ursane and Dammarane Triterpenoids
Authors: Khusnutdinova El'mira F. , Smirnova Irina E. , Giniyatullina Gul'nara V. , Medvedeva Natal'ya I. , Yamansarov Emil Yu. , Kazakov Dmitri V. , Kazakova Oxana B. , Linh Pham T. , Viet Do Quoc , Huong DoThi Thu
Published: March 2019

A variety of new and earlier synthesized lupane, oleanane, ursane and dammarane triterpenoids have been investigated for their inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. 2,3-Indole-21β-acetyl-20β,28-epoxy-18α,19βH-ursane and 3-oxo-3A-homo-3a-aza-20( S)-hydroxydammar-24(25)-ene were synthesized for the first time. The compounds 3, 4, 8–11 and 14 demonstrated strong in vitro inhibitory activity towards α-glucosidase with IC50 values of 37.5–115.1 μM. 3-Deoxy-3a-homo-3a-aza-28-cinnamoyloxy-20(29)-lupene, with an IC50 of 6.67 μM was 60-fold more active than the market drug acarbose.
Cycloartane-Type Saponins from Astragalus Tmoleus var. Tmoleus
Authors: Avunduk Sibel , Mitaine-Offer Anne-Claire , Miyamoto Tomofumi , Tanaka Chiaki , Lacaille-Dubois Marie-Aleth
Published: March 2019

Five known cycloartane-type glycosides were isolated from the roots of A. tmoleus Boiss. var. tmoleus. The identification of these compounds was mainly achieved by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic techniques and FABMS. The results of our studies confirm that triterpene saponins with the cycloartane-type skeleton might be chemotaxonomically significant for the genus Astragalus.
Profiling and Metabolism of Sterols in the Weaver Ant Genus Oecophylla
Authors: Vidkjær Nanna H. , Jensen Karl-Martin V. , Gislum René , Fomsgaard Inge S.
Published: March 2019

Sterols are essential to insects because they are vital for many biochemical processes, nevertheless insects cannot synthesize sterols but have to acquire them through their diet. Studies of sterols in ants are sparse and here the sterols of the weaver ant genus Oecophylla are identified for the first time. The sterol profile and the dietary sterols provided to a laboratory Oecophylla longinoda colony were analyzed. Most sterols originated from the diet, except one, which was probably formed via dealkylation in the ants and two sterols of fungal origin, which likely originate from hitherto unidentified endosymbionts responsible for supplying these two compounds. The sterol profile of a wild Oecophylla smaragdina colony was also investigated. Remarkable qualitative similarities were established between the two species despite the differences in diet, species, and origin. This may reflect a common sterol need/aversion in the weaver ants. Additionally, each individual caste of both species displayed unique sterol profiles.
Aspidosperma-type Alkaloids from Melodinus Suaveolens
Authors: Zhang Jian , Song Min , Liu Zhi-Wen , Xiao Hua , Fan Chun-Lin , Zhang Xiao-Qi , Ye Wen-Cai
Published: March 2019

Three new aspidosperma-type alkaloids, 3-oxo-11-hydroxytabersonine (2), 11-hydroxytabersonine N-oxide (3) and 11-methoxytabersonine N-oxide (4), along with three known ones were isolated from the twigs and leaves of Melodinus suaveolens. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by using spectroscopic methods, and circular dichroism experiments. The known compounds were identified by comparing their spectroscopic data with those reported in the literature.
Electron Ionization Mass Spectrometry-based Metabolomics Studies of Sophora Flavescens can Identify the Geographical Origin of Root Samples
Authors: Suzuki Ryuichiro , Kai Hisahiro , Uesawa Yoshihiro , Matsuno Koji , Okada Yoshihito , Shirataki Yoshiaki
Published: March 2019

An electron ionization mass spectrometry (EI-MS)-based metabolomic approach was applied to Sophora flavescens to identify the geographical origin of each sample. The score plot from principal component analysis using the EI-MS data showed that Japanese S. flavescens samples tended to cluster away from Chinese S. flavescens samples. Statistical techniques showed that ions arising from kurarinol and kushenol H, which we previously identified as marker molecules for Japanese S. flavescens, were characteristic of Japanese S. flavescens. Therefore, metabolomics based on EI-MS data is a valuable tool for confirming the geographical origins of S. flavescens samples. The results suggest that EI-MS-based metabolomics is suitable for the quality control of traditional medicines containing many components.
Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Flower Pigments in Chocolate Cosmos, Cosmos Atrosanguineus, and its Hybrids
Authors: Amamiya Kotarou , Iwashina Tsukasa
Published: March 2019

Two major anthocyanins, cyanidin 3- O-glucoside and 3- O-rutinoside, were isolated from the black flowers of Cosmos atrosanguineus cultivar ‘Choco Mocha’, together with three minor anthocyanins, cyanidin 3- O-malonylglucoside, pelargonidin 3- O-glucoside and 3- O-rutinoside. A chalcone, butein 4′- O-glucoside and three minor flavanones were isolated from the red flowers of C. atrosanguineus x C. sulphureus cultivar ‘Rouge Rouge'. The anthocyanins and chalcone accumulation of cultivar ‘Choco Mocha’ and its hybrid cultivars ‘Brown Rouge’, ‘Forte Rouge’, ‘Rouge Rouge’ and ‘Noel Rouge’ was surveyed by quantitative HPLC. Total anthocyanins of black flower cultivars ‘Choco Mocha’ and ‘Brown Rouge’ were 3-4-folds higher than that of the red flower cultivar ‘Noel Rouge'. On the other hand, total chalcone of ‘Noel Rouge’ was 10–77-folds higher compared with those of other cultivars, ‘Brown Rouge’, ‘Forte Rouge’ and ‘Rouge Rouge'. It was shown that the flower color variations from red to black of Chocolate Cosmos and its hybrids are due to the difference in the relative amounts of anthocyanins and chalcone.
A New Geranylated Chalcone from Andrographis Lobelioides
Authors: Sumalatha Manne , Rammohan Aluru , Gunasekar Duvvuru , Deville Alexandre , Bodo Bernard
Published: March 2019

A new O-geranylated chalcone, 2′-hydroxy-2-methoxy-4′- O-[( E)-3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienyl] chalcone (1), together with three known flavones, 5-hydroxy-7,2′-dimethoxyflavone (2), skullcapflavone I (3) and echioidin (4), were isolated from the leaves of Andrographis lobelioides. The structure of 1 and the known compounds (2–4) were achieved by extensive 1D and 2D NMR spectral and chemical studies.
Pterocarpans from Derris Laxiflora
Authors: Chien Shih-Chang , Chiu Hsi-Lin , Cheng Wei-Yi , Hong Yong-Han , Wang Sheng-Yang , Wu Jyh-Horng , Shih Chun-Ching , Liao Jung-Chun , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung
Published: March 2019

Six compounds were isolated from Derris laxiflora Benth., including two new pterocarpans, 7,6′-dihydroxy-3′-methoxypterocarpan (1) and derrispisatin (2), as well as four known ones, lespedezol D1 (3), secundiflorol I (4), 6a-hydroxymaackiain (5) and pisatin (6). The structures of these compounds were determined by analysis of their spectroscopic data.
Xanthones from Garcinia Propinqua Roots
Authors: Meesakul Pornphimol , Pansanit Acharavadee , Maneerat Wisanu , Sripisut Tawanun , Ritthiwigrom Thunwadee , Machan Theeraphan , Cheenpracha Sarot , Laphookhieo Surat
Published: March 2019

Phytochemical investigation of Garcinia propinqua roots led to the isolation and identification of a new xanthone, doitunggarcinone D (1), together with 15 known compounds (2–16). Their structures were elucidated by intensive analysis of spectroscopic data. Compounds 3, 6, 7, 14, 15 and 16 exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis TISTR 088 with MIC values in the range of 1–4 μg/mL. Compounds 3, 7, 10 and 14 also showed good antibacterial activity against B. cereus TISTR 688 with MIC values ranging from 4–8 μg/mL.
A New Antibacterial Tetrahydronaphthalene Lignanamide, Foveolatamide, from the Stems of Ficus Foveolata
Authors: Meerungrueang Wirod , Panichayupakaranant Parkphoom
Published: March 2019

An antibacterial assay-guided isolation of the crude ethyl acetate extract from Ficus foveolata stems afforded four compounds, including a tetrahydronaphthalene lignanamide, foveolatamide (1), together with two known lignanamides, flavifloramide B (2) and N-trans-grossamide (3), and a known phenolic amide, N-trans-feruloyltyramine (4). The structures of these compounds were established on the basis of NMR spectroscopic and MS techniques. Among the isolated compounds, only 1 showed satisfactory antibacterial activities against Streptococcus pyogenes, with an MIC and MBC value of 45 μM. This is the first report of these four compounds from the stems of F. foveolata.
Polyphenols and Volatile Compounds in Commercial Chokeberry (Aronia Melanocarpa) Products
Authors: Romani Annalisa , Vignolini Pamela , Ieri Francesca , Heimler Daniela
Published: March 2019

Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott commercial products (dried fruit, juice and compote) were analyzed for their polyphenol content by chromatographic and spectrophotometric analyses in order to ascertain the fate of this group of compounds when fresh fruit is processed and sold in different forms on the market. Different classes of polyphenols were investigated: hydroxycinnamic derivatives ranged from 0.65 mg/g to 4.30 mg/g, flavonoids from 0.36 mg/g to 1.12 mg/g, and anthocyanins from 0.65 to 7.08 mg/g sample. 4- O-Caffeoyl-quinic acid was tentatively identified for the first time in Aronia. In order to characterize better chokeberry juice, a GC profile of aroma compounds was obtained. The aroma juice compounds belong mainly to the chemical classes of alcohols (48.9%) and ketones (30.28%). The most abundant compound is 3-penthen-2-one (23.6%).
Volatile Components of the Stressed Liverwort Conocephalum Conicum
Authors: Ghani Nurunajah Ab , Ludwiczuk Agnieszka , Ismail Nor Hadiani , Asakawa Yoshinori
Published: March 2019

The Type-II Japanese Conocephalum conicum, which is known to have (+)-bornyl acetate as a marker compound, was put in the stressed condition to start biosynthesis of a phenyl propanoid, trans-methyl cinnamate. Analysis of the HS-SPME GC/MS of stressed C. conicum showed trans-methyl cinnamate as a major component. This phenomenon results in some confusion from the chemotype perspective since trans-methyl cinnamate is only present in type-III Japanese C. conicum.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil from Aerial Parts of Algerian Pulicaria Mauritanica
Authors: Gherib Mohammed , Bekhechi Chahrazed , Bekkara Fewzia Atik , Bighelli Ange , Casanova Joseph , Tomi Félix
Published: March 2019

One oil sample isolated from aerial parts of Pulicaria mauritanica Coss. from Western Algeria has been analyzed by GC(RI), GC-MS and 13C NMR. In total, 21 components, accounting for 97.0% of the oil, were identified. Then, 36 oil samples coming from plants harvested at two flowering periods in three locations were analyzed by GC(RI) and 13C NMR. Although all the oil samples exhibited similar composition, dominated by carvotanacetone (89.2–96.1%), the yield of essential oil varied drastically from sample to sample (0.35–1.44%), depending on the location of harvest. The essential oil displayed moderate antimicrobial effect against bacteria, yeast and filamentous fungi (MIC = 2–4 μL/mL).
Origanum Vulgare and Thymbra Capitata Essential Oils from Spain: Determination of Aromatic Profile and Bioactivities
Authors: Carrasco Alejandro , Perez Enrique , Cutillas Ana-Belen , Martinez-Gutierrez Ramiro , Tomas Virginia , Tudela Jose
Published: March 2019

Oregano ( Thymbra capitata and Origanum vulgare) essential oils (EOs), cultivated and extracted in the South-East of Spain, were analysed by GC/MS to determine their composition. ( E)-β-Caryophyllene (0.5–4.9%), thymol (0.2–5.8%), p-cymene (3.8–8.2%), γ-terpinene (2.1–10.7%) and carvacrol (58.7–77.4%) were determined as the main molecules. This characterisation was completed with enantioselective gas chromatography, where (-)-( E)-β-caryophyllene, (+)-α-pinene and (+)-β-pinene were determined as the main enantiomers. Antioxidant activity was evaluated positively by several methods, accounting for activity against free radicals and reducing power. Important inhibitory activity on lipoxygenase (LOX) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was observed supporting potential anti-inflammatory, anti-Alzheimer and insecticidal activities, mainly due to carvacrol. These properties support the potential use of oregano EOs as natural cosmetic and natural pharmaceutical ingredients.
Chemical Lineages of Ligularia Fischeri
Authors: Kuroda Chiaki , Shibayama Chiemi , Inoue Kyosuke , Okamoto Yasuko , Tori Motoo , Saito Yoshinori , Hanai Ryo , Gong Xun
Published: March 2019

Six Ligularia fischeri samples, two from Sichuan (samples 1 and 2) and four from Chongqing (samples 3–6), were examined for root chemicals and the DNA sequence of the internal transcribed spacers of the ribosomal RNA gene. Samples 2 and 3 contained benzofurans. The isolation of benzofurans shows that the chemical diversity in L. fischeri is higher than previously reported. Samples 1, 4, 5, and 6 contained eremophilanes. However, the compounds were different between sample 1 and samples 4–6, indicating variation within eremophilane producers. DNA data indicated that introgression could be a mechanism of benzofuran production in sample 2 and that sample 1 and samples 4–6 were genetically separate.
Diversity in Chemical Constituents of Ligularia Longihastata Collected in China
Authors: Okamoto Yasuko , Taniguchi Mizuho , Terada Kaori , Nakashima Katsuyuki , Gong Xun , Hanai Ryo , Tori Motoo , Kuroda Chiaki
Published: March 2019

Root constituents of Ligularia longihastata were examined for the first time. Fourteen eremophilane sesquiterpenes, including two new eremophilanes identified as 3α-isobutyroyloxy-7β H-eremophila-9,11-dien-8-one and 3β-angeloyloxy-1β,10β-epoxyfuranoeremophilan-9-one, and three eudesmanes were isolated. From samples collected in Baiyu County, Sichuan Province, furanoeremophilane derivatives were isolated, while various eremophilan-8-ones were isolated from samples collected in Kangding County, Sichuan. The results suggest chemical diversity in the species.
Two New Diterpenoids from Salvia Przewarskii
Authors: Tsukada Haruka , Kawabe Hiroshi , Ohtaka Aya , Saito Yoshinori , Okamoto Yasuko , Tori Motoo , Kagechika Hiroyuki , Hirota Hiroshi , Gong Xun , Kuroda Chiaki , Ohsaki Ayumi
Published: March 2019

One abietane-type and one dinoricetexane-type diterpenoid, salviskin A (1) and salviskin B (2), respectively, together with fourteen known diterpenoids, were isolated from Salvia przewarskii. Structural elucidation of these compounds was performed by spectroscopic methods including 2D NMR. The compounds isolated were evaluated for their cytotoxicity against HeLa and HL-60 cells.
Constituents of the Leaves of Pandanus Utilis
Authors: Lo I-Wen , Cheng Yuan-Bin , Haung Chen-Chang , Hwang Tsong-Long , Wu Chin-Chung , Liou Jing-Ru , Hou Ming-Feng , Yuan Shyng-Shiou , Chang Fang-Rong , Wu Yang-Chang
Published: March 2019

Nineteen compounds, including seven triterpenoids (1–7), five steroids (8–12), four cyclohexenone derivatives (13–16), two benzenoid glycosides (17 and 18) and one lignan (19), were isolated and separated from the leaves of Pandanus utilis through bioactivity-guided fractionation. Among them, one new lanosterol-type triterpenoid was found and named as (24 R)-24-methyl-5α-4-demethyllanosta-9(11),25-dien-3β-ol (1). The structures of the isolates were determined by mass and spectroscopic analyses, and the compounds were subjected to anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and cytotoxic assays.
Chemical Constituents of the Aerial Parts of Euphorbia Nematocypha
Authors: Xu Chen , Jia Hai-Yang , Zuo Bo , Liao Zhi-Xin , Ji Lan-Ju , Sun Hong-Fa , Wang Qi
Published: March 2019

Chemical constituents of the dried aerial parts of Euphorbia nematocypha were investigated. A new oleanane triterpenoid, trans, trans-2′,4′-hexadienedioicacid-1′-β-amyrin ester (1), together with, β-amyrin (2), β-amyrin acetate (3), betulinic acid (4), ellagic acid (5), oleanolic acid (6), β-sitosterol (7), kaempferol (8), quercetin (9), lupeol (10) and pseudo-taraxasterol (11) were isolated from the methylene chloride extract. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic (1D- & 2D-NMR) and ESI-MS analysis and comparison with data reported in the literature. The new isolated triterpenoid showed moderate cytotoxic activities against HeLa and MCF-7cell lines.
Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Compounds from Datura Stramonium with TRAIL-Resistance Overcoming Activity
Authors: Karmakar Utpal K. , Toume Kazufumi , Ishikawa Naoki , Arai Midori A. , Sadhu Samir K. , Ahmed Firoj , Ishibashi Masami
Published: March 2019

TRAIL is a potent inducer of apoptosis in most cancer cells, but not in normal cells, and therefore has deserved intense interest as a promising agent for cancer therapy. In the search for bioactive natural products for overcoming TRAIL-resistance, we previously reported a number of active compounds. In our screening program on natural resources targeting overcoming TRAIL-resistance, activity-guided fractionation of the MeOH extract of Datura stramonium leaves led to the isolation of three alkaloids – scopolamine (1), trigonelline (2), and tyramine (3). Compounds 1, 2, and 3 exhibited TRAIL-resistance overcoming activity at 50, 150, and 100 μM, respectively in TRAIL-resistant AGS cells.
New 6,6-Spiroketal from the Alga-Derived Fungus Penicillium Lividum
Authors: Zhuravleva Olesya I. , Sobolevskaya Maria P. , Denisenko Vladimir A. , Kirichuk Natalya N. , Zhidkov Maxim E. , Ermakova Svetlana P. , Kim Natalya Yu. , Antonov Alekxandr S. , Leshchenko Elena V. , Afiyatullov Shamil Sh.
Published: March 2019

The new 6,6-spiroketal, sargassopenilline H (1), and known peneciraistin C (2) have been isolated from an EtOAc extract of the marine-derived fungus PenicilliumlividumKMM 4663. The structure of the new metabolite was determined by HR ESIMS and 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. Sargassopenilline H (1) in non-cytotoxic concentration inhibited colony formation of RPMI-7951 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines.
Comparative Study of Alkaloid Pattern of Four Bulgarian Fumaria Species
Authors: Doncheva Tsvetelina , Yordanova Gabriela , Vutov Vassil , Kostova Nadezhda , Philipov Stefan
Published: March 2019

The alkaloid pattern of four Fumaria species ( Fumaria kralikii, Fumaria rostellata, Fumaria schleicherii, Fumaria thuretii) growing in Bulgaria was investigated by GC-MS and twenty isoquinoline alkaloids were determined. Phytochemical investigation of the alkaloid composition on Fumaria thuretii Boiss was made for the first time. The alkaloid profile of the species was compared at two levels, between different species and within two species from different habitats. Two chemotypical groups, based on the types of isoquinoline alkaloids were suggested. To group A belong species F. kralikii, F. rostellata (F. r. 1) and F. thuretii containing more than 50% spirobenzylisoquinoline alkaloids of the crude alkaloid mixtures. To group B belong species F. rostellata (F. r. 2) and F. schleicherii containing more than 40% protopine alkaloids and relatively high percentage phthaldeisoquinoline alkaloids (11–19%). In group A phthaldeisoquinoline alkaloids were not detected.
Synthesis of β-Hydroxytyrosine, A Component of Burkholdines
Authors: Konno Hiroyuki , Sasaki Yasuhiro , Sato Ryota , Zhu XiuMei , Otsuki Yusuke , Ikoma Megumi
Published: March 2019

The preparation of four stereoisomers of β-hydroxytyrosine containing burkholdines is described. Enantio-pure syn β-hydroxytyrosine was synthesized using Sharpless aminohydroxylation. To obtain anti β-hydroxytyrosine, the cinnamate derivative was oxidized to give the optical active diol derivative by the AD-mix and subsequently, the α-hydroxy group was converted to amine. Deprotection of the acid-sensitive β-hydroxytyrosine derivatives was successively accomplished by brief immersion in 4N HCl/dioxane. All prepared stereoisomers of β-hydroxytyrosine were available for solid and solution phase peptide synthesis and amino acid analysis.
Isoprene Side-chain of SMTP is Essential for Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibition and Cellular Localization
Authors: Otake Shinya , Ogawa Norihiro , Kitano Yoshikazu , Hasumi Keiji , Suzuki Eriko
Published: March 2019

SMTPs, a family of natural small molecules that effectively treat ischemic stroke, are subject to clinical development. SMTPs enhance plasminogen activation and inhibit soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), leading to promotion of endogenous thrombolysis and anti-inflammation. The SMTP molecule consists of a tricyclic γ-lactam moiety, an isoprene side-chain, and an N-linked side-chain. Here, we investigate the yet-to-be-characterized function of the isoprene side-chain of SMTPs in sEH inhibition and cellular distribution. The results demonstrated that oxidative modification as well as truncation of the side-chain abolished epoxide hydrolase inhibition. The introduction of a terminal hydroxy group exceptionally unaffected epoxide hydrolase, but led to impaired cellular localization, resulting in diminution of cellular epoxide hydrolase inhibition. Thus, the isoprene side-chain of SMTP is an important pharmacophore for epoxide hydrolase inhibition and cellular localization.
Comparative Histological and Phytochemical Study of Fallopia Species
Authors: Békési-Kallenberger Heléna , Horváth Györgyi , Bencsik Tímea , Balázs Viktória Lilla , Filep Rita , Papp Nóra
Published: March 2019

Fallopia species which belong to the Polygonaceae family have several data related to their use in the Asian herbal medicine. In this work, some histological and phytochemical parameters of Fallopia japonica, F. sachalinensis, and F. × bohemica were analysed and compared. Rhizome and leaf samples were collected before, during, and after the flowering period at 3 habitats in Szombathely and 4 habitats in Baranya County, Hungary. The main histological characteristics of the stem, leaf and petiole were studied by light microscopy in cross section. Total tannin and anthraquinone contents were determined according to the official methods of the Hungarian Pharmacopoeia VIIIth (equal to the European Pharmacopoeia 6th). No species-specific markers were found in any plant part. In the rhizome, the highest tannin content was measured in Japanese knotweed, followed by Bohemian and giant knotweed in each period. The tannin content measured in each plant was higher in the leaves than in the rhizomes except F. japonica. The rhizome of F. japonica had the highest anthraquinone content before the flowering period, followed by F. × bohemica and F. sachalinensis. According to earlier and our preliminary data, Fallopia taxa are of great therapeutic promise in the future.
Volatile Components Emitted from the Liverwort Marchantia Paleacea Subsp. Diptera
Authors: Sakurai Kazutoshi , Tomiyama Kenichi , Kawakami Yukihiko , Ochiai Nozomi , Yabe Shigeki , Nakagawa Tomomi , Asakawa Yoshinori
Published: March 2019

The volatile components from the thalloid liverwort, Marchantia paleacea subsp. diptera were investigated by HS-SPME-GC-MS analysis. The monocyclic monoterpene aldehyde, perillaldehyde was identified for the first time as the major component and its content was about 50% of the volatiles, along with β-pinene, limonene, β-caryophyllene, α-selinene and β-selinene as minor volatiles. Using MD (Multi-dimensional) GC-MS analysis equipped with a chiral column as the second column, the chirality was determined of both perillaldehyde and limonene, which was considered as the precursor of perillaldehyde,. Both compounds were ( S)-(-)-enantiomers (over 99.0 %) and ( R)-enantiomers (less than 0.5 %). This is the first report of the existence of perillaldehyde in liverworts.
Antimicrobial Constituents and Effects of Blended Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Patchouli, Pine, and Cajuput Essential Oils
Authors: Tadtong Sarin , Puengseangdee Chompunut , Prasertthanawut Suwapit , Hongratanaworakit Tapanee
Published: March 2019

The synergistic antimicrobial activities of blended essential oil preparations composed of eucalyptus, rosemary, patchouli, pine and cajuput oils were evaluated against various pathogenic microorganisms. They exhibited antimicrobial activity in the agar disc diffusion assay against the Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis, the Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli an d Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the yeast, Candida albicans. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of these preparations was evaluated by the broth microdilution method. We found that the best synergistic antibacterial preparation (the sum of fractional inhibitory concentrations, Σfic< 1) was eucalyptus, rosemary, and mineral oils (volume ratio 4:4:2) without patchouli, pine or cajuput oils added, while most preparations showed an antagonistic anticandidal effect (Σfic> 1). The blended essential oil preparations were characterized for their components by GC/MS, and contained 1,8-cineole as a major component. However, the preparation containing the highest amount of 1,8-cineole did not exhibit the best synergistic effect, which was shown by the preparation comprising the highest amount of α-pinene. Hence, we concluded that the differential antibacterial effect of either blended oil preparations or single/pure essential oils was influenced by the amount of α-pinene and the number of active components in either the blended preparations or single/pure essential oils.
Vasorelaxant Effect of a Baccharis Trimera Infusion on Precontracted Rat Aortic Rings
Authors: Gómez Maria. A , Migues Ignacio , Caggiani Maria , Arias Ximena , Laprovitera Mariajose , Blanco Fabiana , Cesio Maria Veronica , Migliaro Eduardo R. , Heinzen Horacio
Published: March 2019

Baccharis trimera (Less.) DC is a South American plant that in folk medicine is considered to produce reduction in blood pressure. One aspect of this putative effect is the vasorelaxation. The aim of this work was to evaluate the ability of a B. trimera extract to relax rat aortic rings precontracted with noradrenaline. As the infusion is the usual way of intake of this plant, an infusion of B. trimera was prepared using 100g of the plant (leaves) boiled in water, frozen and lyophilized. Working solutions were prepared using different concentrations of the dried extract diluted in Krebs Henseleit solution. It was proved that the infusion relaxed the aortic rings in a dose dependent manner 100 minutes after adding the extract to the bath. Considering as 100% the maximum contraction achieved with noradrenaline, a relaxation of 101.1±2.3% was observed with the highest dose of the infusion used in these experiments (0.32mg/mL). While in control rings relaxation was 12.9±2.4%. In aortic rings denuded from endothelium the percentage of vasoralaxation did not show statistically significant differences when compared to intact rings. These data support the hypothesis of a vasorelaxant effect of this plant and constitutes the first approach to the scientific basis of a potential antihypertensive effect.
Phytochemistry and Ethnopharmacology of Some Medicinal Plants Used in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
Authors: Amin Hawraz Ibrahim M. , Ibrahim Mohammed F. , Hussain Faiq H. S. , Sardar Abdullah Sh. , Vidari Giovanni
Published: March 2019

The majority of Kurds inhabit a region that includes adjacent parts of Iran, Iraq, Syria and Turkey. This review shows that the traditional medicine is still used by Kurdish peoples and underlines the medicinal value of a great number of plants used locally. The medicinal uses include the treatment of a variety of diseases, ranging from simple stomach-ache to highly complicate male and female disorders; even sexual weakness and kidney stones are treated by plants. The majority of the plants that are used are for curing gastro-intestinal disorders and inflammation, followed by urinary tract disorders, skin burns, irritations and liver problems. In the last part of this paper, we also report the first results of our ongoing research project on the constituents of some uninvestigated Kurdish medicinal plants. The C-glycosylflavone embinin, the α-methylene acyl derivative 6-tuliposide A, and the iridoids aucubin and ajugol were isolated for the first time from Iris persica, Tulipa systole and Verbascum calvum, respectively. These plants are traditionally used against inflammation, pain, and skin burns.
Phytochemistry and Ethnopharmacology of the Ecuadorian Flora. A Review
Authors: Malagón Omar , Ramírez Jorge , Andrade José Miguel , Morocho Vladimir , Armijos Chabaco , Gilardoni Gianluca
Published: March 2019

Ecuador owns many high quantity and wealthy ecosystems that contain an elevated biodiversity in flora and fauna. The use of native medicinal plants has been maintained by at least 18 different indigenous cultures; furthermore, this country has been the witness of the discovery of important medicinal plants, such as Cinchona, and is an understudied resource of new natural products. The objective of this review is to update the ethnopharmacological and phytochemical studies accomplished on the Ecuadorian flora, pointing to the 253 native families and more than 15,000 species registered at present.
A New Iridoid from the Aerial Parts of Hedyotis Pilulifera
Authors: Hoai Nguyen Thi , Duc Ho Viet , Phu Nguyen Dinh Quynh , Kodama Takeshi , Ito Takuya , Morita Hiroyuki
Published: March 2019

A new iridoid, 10-acetylborreriagenin (1), and five known iridoid glycosides (2–6), were isolated from the aerial parts of Hedyotis pilulifera. Their structures were elucidated by spectral analyses, including 1D- and 2D-NMR, and HR-ESI-MS, and comparisons with the NMR data reported in the literature. The isolated compounds 1–6 were tested against six bacterial species. Among them, 10-acetylborreriagenin (1) showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with an MIC value of 100 μg/mL.
A New Degraded Sesquiterpene from the Twigs of Trigonostemon Lutescens
Authors: Zeng Yan-Bo , Ma Shan-Shan , Guo Zhi-Kai , Jiang Bei , Mei Wen-Li , Dai Hao-Fu
Published: March 2019

A new degraded sesquiterpene, tectoionol C (1), together with five known compounds wilsonol F (2), heterodendrin (3), epi-heterodendrin (4), 7-deoxogeayine (5), and 1 H-indole-3-carboxylicacid, methyl ester (6), was isolated from the twigs of Trigonostemon lutescens. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods including 1D and 2D NMR techniques, as well as by comparison with published data.
Cytotoxic Compounds from Aerial Organs of Xanthium Strumarium
Authors: Ferrer Janet Piloto , Zampini Iris Catiana , Cuello Ana Soledad , Francisco Marbelis , Romero Aylema , Valdivia Dayana , Gonzalez María , Salas Carlos , Lamar Angel Sanchez , Isla María Inés
Published: March 2019

Xanthium strumarium L., the main species of the genus Xanthium, is ubiquitously distributed. The aim of this study was to determine the cytotoxic effect of aerial organs of X. strumarium, grown in Cuba, against cancer cell lines and the isolation of compounds potentially responsible for this activity. Initially, an ethanol partitioning procedure yielded the XSE extract that was subsequently fractionated with chloroform resulting in a XSCF fraction. Both, XSE and XSCF fractions exhibited cytotoxic effects on MDA MB-231, MCF7, A549 and CT26 cell lines by using the MTT assay. Above all, the XSCF fraction was more active than XSE. For this reason, XSCF was subsequently fractionated by silica gel chromatography and the active fractions submitted to semi-preparative HPLC for isolation of bioactive compounds. Six sub-fractions (SF1 to SF6) were recovered. Sub-fractions 3 and 6 were the most active on each assayed cell line, while sub-fractions 4 and 5 were only active against A549 and CT26 cell lines. In each case, sub-fraction 6 showed the strongest inhibitory effect. The HPLC-DAD fingerprint of sub-fraction 6 showed a single peak that was identified by GC-MS as (-) spathulenol, a sesquiterpene with reported antitumor activity.
Colochirosides A1, A2, A3, and D, Four Novel Sulfated Triterpene Glycosides from the Sea Cucumber Colochirus Robustus (Cucumariidae, Dendrochirotida)
Authors: Silchenko Alexandra S. , Kalinovsky Anatoly I. , Avilov Sergey A. , Andryjaschenko Pelageya V. , Dmitrenok Pavel S. , Kalinin Vladimir I. , Yurchenko Ekaterina A. , Dolmatov Igor Yu.
Published: March 2019

Four new triterpene glycosides, colochirosides A1 (1), A2 (2), A3 (3) and D (4), have been isolated from the sea cucumber Colochirus robustus (Cucumariidae, Dendrochirotida). Structures of the glycosides have been elucidated by 2D NMR spectroscopy and mass-spectrometry. Colochiroside D (4) has a new type of carbohydrate chain having the only sulfate group attached to C-6 of the third (glucose) monosaccharide residue. Cytotoxic activities of glycosides 1–4 against the ascite form of mouse Ehrlich carcinoma cells and hemolytic activity against mouse erythrocytes have been studied. Hemolytic activity of the glycosides was higher than cytotoxic. Glycosides 1, 3 and 4 demonstrated strong effects, whereas compound 2 showed only moderate activity.
Isolation and Quantification of Pinitol, a Bioactive Cyclitol, in Retama spp
Authors: González-Mauraza Nuria H. , León-González Antonio J. , Espartero José L. , Gallego-Fernández Juan B. , Sánchez-Hidalgo Marina , Martin-Cordero Carmen
Published: March 2019

The genus Retama (Fabaceae) is widely distributed in the Mediterranean region. In the present study, pinitol (3- O-methyl- chiro-inositol), an anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic molecule, was isolated from aerial parts of R. monosperma, and its structure established on the basis of spectroscopic techniques (1D/2D NMR) and MS. Identification and quantification of pinitol in R. raetam and R. sphaerocarpa were also performed. R. monosperma had the highest concentration of pinitol (2.3%). The presence of pinitol in aqueous extracts of Retama spp. may explain the adaptation of these plants to drought and salinity. Furthermore, pinitol could be considered as a mediator in the anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic activities of Retama spp., which are traditionally used to treat diabetes.