SpecDis: quantifying the comparison of calculated and experimental electronic circular dichroism spectra

Sesquiterpenoids from Carpesium abrotanoides and their anti-inflammatory activity both in vitro and in vivo

Twenty-nine sesquiterpenoids, including pseudoguaiane-type (1-11), eudesmane-type (12-23), and carabrane-type (24-29), have been identified from the plant Carpesium abrotanoides. Of them, compounds 1-4, 12-15, and 24-27, namely carpabrotins A-L, are twelve previously undescribed ones. Compound 3 possessed a pseudoguaiane backbone with a rearrangement modification at C-11, C-12 and C-13, while compound 4 suffered a carbon bond break between the C-4 and C-5 to form a rare 4,5-seco-pseudoguaiane lactone. Compounds 1-3, 5, 13-16 and 25-27 exhibited anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting NO production in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages with IC50 values less than 40 μM, while compounds 1, 2, 5, 13, 14, 16, and 25-27 showed significant inhibitory activity comparable to that of dexamethasone. The anti-atopic dermatitis (AD) effects of compounds 5 and 16 were tested according to 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced AD-like skin lesions in KM mice, and the results revealed that the major products 5 and 16 improved the histological features of AD-like skin lesions and mast cell infiltration in mice. This study suggested that sesquiterpenoids in C. abrotanoides should play a key role in its anti-inflammatory use.

Chemical constituents with their alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity from the whole plant of Ceratophyllum demersum

From Ceratophyllum demersum growing in Vietnam, twelve compounds were isolated and structurally elucidated, including six previously undescribed compounds, demersones A-D (1-4), acetylvelutins A and B (8 and 9), together with six known compounds, (+)-cyclocolorenone (5), 1-hydroxycyclocolorenone (6), 10-hydroxycyclocolorenone (7), retusin (10), betulinic acid (11), and lupeol (12). The chemical structures and stereochemistry of 1-12 were identified through analysis of spectroscopic data (1D and 2D NMR and HRESIMS), ECD data, and DFT calculation. Notably, this is the first time that humulene-type (1 and 2), guaiane-type (3), and aromadendrane-type (4-7) sesquiterpenoids have been reported in this genus. Compounds 8 and 9 are the first examples of 8-acetoxyflavones found in nature. Upon evaluation of the alpha-glucosidase of 1-3 and 5-12, it was found that 12 exhibited the highest potential with an IC50 value of 15.4 ± 1.1 μM. The molecular docking of 3 and 8 was further studied.

Chemical profile and biological activities of Lysiphyllum binatum (Blanco) de Wit

Lysiphyllum binatum (Blanco) de Wit in the Fabaceae family, despite its traditional medicinal uses, has not been the subject of prior scientific inquiry into its chemical and biological profile. The dichloromethane and MeOH extracts of its roots exhibited notably similar antioxidant activity, while the dichloromethane extract of the vine stems showed aromatase inhibition. This study aimed to identify the bioactive components responsible for these activities. Chemical investigation of the roots led to the isolation of six new metabolites, named lysiphans A-F (1-6), along with eight known compounds (7-14). The vine stem yielded lysiphan C (3) and compound 7, as well as five known isolates (15-19). The structures of these metabolites were determined through NMR spectral analysis, HRESIMS, quantum chemical calculations of NMR and ECD spectra, and Mosher's modifications to establish their absolute configurations. The biogenetic relationships between the new compounds were proposed. Several of the isolates were evaluated for their antioxidant, anti-aromatase, and cytotoxic properties. Lysiphan B (2) exhibited significant antioxidant activity, with an IC50 value of 28.8 ± 0.4 μM in the diphenyl picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) assay, 3.5 ± 0.2 μM in the xanthine/xanthine oxidase (XXO) assay, and 1.5 ± 0.0 ORAC units in oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. Additionally, compounds 12, 13, and 16 exhibited very strong aromatase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 0.3 ± 0.2, 4.7 ± 0.1, and 0.9 ± 0.2 µM, respectively. Compound 16 also demonstrated strong ORAC activity of 1.9 ± 0.1 ORAC units.

Cuparene-type sesquiterpenes with neuroprotective activities from the edible mushroom Flammulina filiformis

Four new cuparene-type sesquiterpenes, flammuterpenols A - D (1-4), along with one known congener (5) were isolated from the solid culture of edible mushroom Flammulina filiformis. Their structures with a benzoxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane core were elucidated by integrated multiple spectroscopic techniques, electronic circular dichroism, and single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Biologically, compounds 1-5 were evaluated in vitro for their neuroprotective effects against 6-hydroxydopamine induced cell death in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. All of them exhibited remarkable neuroprotective effects possessing the EC50 values ranging from 0.93 ± 0.02 to 10.28 ± 0.10 μM. These findings not only enrich the structural diversity of cuparene-type sesquiterpenes, but also provide potential candidates for the further development of the neuroprotective agents.

Pleiotropically activation of azaphilone biosynthesis by overexpressing a pathway-specific transcription factor in marine-derived Aspergillus terreus RA2905

The genome sequencing of Aspergillus terreus reveals that the vast number of predicted biosynthetic gene clusters have not reflected by the metabolic profile observed under conventional culture conditions. In this study, a silent azaphilone biosynthetic gene cluster was activated by overexpressing a pathway-specific transcription factor gene2642 in marine-derived fungus A. terreus RA2905. Consequently, twenty azaphilone compounds were identified from the OE2642 mutant, including 11 new azaphilones and their precursors, azasperones C-J (1-5, 7-9) and preazasperones A-C (15-17). The structures of those new compounds were unambiguously determined on the basis of NMR and HRESIMS spectra analysis, and the absolute configurations were established depending on ECD calculations. Compounds 1 and 2 were the rarely reported naturally occurring azaphilones with 2-N coupled phenyl-derivative. The bioactivity assay revealed that compounds 18-20 exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity. Based on the occurrence of diverse intermediates and the putative gene functions, a plausible biosynthetic pathway of these compounds was proposed. The above results demonstrated that overexpression of the pathway-specific transcription factor presents a promising approach for enriching fungal secondary metabolites and accelerating the targeted discovery of novel biosynthetic products.

Bioactive abietenolide diterpenes from Suregada procera

The phytochemical investigation of the leaves and the roots of Suregada procera afforded the new ent-abietane diterpenoid sureproceriolide A (1) along with the known secondary metabolites 8,14β:11,12α-diepoxy-13(15)-abietane-16,12-olid (2), jolkinolide A (3), jolkinolide E (4), ent-pimara-8(14),15-dien-19-oic acid (5), sitosterol (6), oleana-9(11):12-dien-3β-ol (7), and oleic acid (8). Their structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopic and mass spectrometric analyses, and the structure of jolkinolide A (3) was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Sureproceriolide A (1) showed modest activity against the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus lugdunensis (MIC = 31.44 μM), and sitosterol (6) against the Gram-negative bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis (IC50 = 45.37 μM). Jolkinolide A (3) and E (4) as well as sitosterol (6) inhibited the release of NOS (IMR-90 cells), TNF-α (HaCaT cells) and NF-κB (HaCaT cells), with IC50 values of 0.43, 3.21, and 10.32 μM, respectively. Compound 6 showed antitumoral activity against SK-MEL-28 (IC50 = 20.66 μM) and CCD-13Lu (IC50 = 24.70 μM) cell lines, with no cytotoxic effect against the prostate cells PrEC (CC50 > 300 μM).

Millmerranones G, a meroterpene isolated from a mangrove-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. GXIMD 03004

One new meroterpene derivative, millmerranones G (1), and three known analogues (2-4) were identified from the mangrove-derived fungus Aspergillus sp. GXIMD 03004, which was isolated from the leaves of mangrove Acanthus ilicifolius L. collected from Beibu Gulf in China. The structure of 1 was characterised by a comprehensive interpretation of the NMR spectroscopic and HRESIMS data. The absolute configuration for 1 was established using experimental and calculated ECD data. The anti-Vibrio activities of all compounds were evaluated, the result showed that compounds 1 and 2 has weak activity against Vibrio harveyi.

Grewiifopenes A-K, bioactive clerodane diterpenoids from Casearia grewiifolia Vent

Eleven novel clerodane-type diterpenoids, grewiifopenes A-K (1-4 and 12-18), along with nine known compounds (5-11, 19, and 20) were purified from the dichloromethane extract of the twigs and stems of Casearia grewiifolia Vent. (Salicaceae). Their spectroscopic data, including the NMR, HRESIMS, and electronic circular dichroism calculations were employed to completely characterize and elucidate the chemical structures and absolute configurations. The clerodane diterpenoids possessing a 6-OH group and no substitution at C-7 exhibited greater cytotoxic activity than others, with their IC50 values ranging from 0.3 to 2.9 μM. Isocaseamembrin E (7) exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, while isocaseamembrin E (7), corymbulosin X (8), caseargrewiin A (9), kurzipene A (10), and balanspene F (11) exhibited antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus.

Tomentediline A: A isoquinoline alkaloids with undescribed carbon skeleton from Corydalis tomentella

Two undescribed isoquinolines (1-2), including one undescribed carbon skeleton isoquinoline together with six known ones (4-9) as well as an undescribed amide (3) and three known ones (10-12) were isolated from C. tomentella. Their planar structures and absolute configurations were elucidated by extensive analyses of UV, NMR, HRESIMS, DP4+ statistical analysis and ECD calculations, respectively. Tomentediline A (1) is an isoquinoline alkaloid dimer that forms an undescribed carbon carbon bond at the C-13 position of (2H)-protoberberine in a natural product discovered for the first time. Meantime, 1 exerted moderate cytotoxicity against the U251 cell lines, indicating that the undescribed dimer skeleton of isoquinoline compound has the potential for anti-glioma.

Synthesis and Properties of Dibenzo-Fused Naphtho[2,3-b:6,7-b']disilole and Naphtho[2,3-b:6,7-b']diphosphole

Silole- and phosphole-containing polycyclic aromatic compounds have attracted significant attention in the field of organic functional materials. The structure of the aromatic units has great impact on the photophysical properties of the resulting silole- and phosphole-containing polycyclic aromatic compounds. Here, dibenzo-fused naphtho[2,3-b:6,7-b']disilole (NDS) and naphtho[2,3-b:6,7-b']diphosphole (NDP), where a naphthalene unit is arranged between two silole and phosphole units, respectively, were designed and synthesized. The solid-state structures of them were confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. The photophysical properties were evaluated by UV-vis absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopies and compared with those of their related compounds, such as dibenzo-fused silolo[3,2-b]silole and benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b']disilole, ever reported. The longest wavelength absorption band of a series of silole-fused compounds was found to be red-shifted in the order benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b']disilole < NDS < silolo[3,2-b]silole derivatives. For a series of phosphole-fused compounds, π-extension from phospholo[3,2-b]phosphole to NDP derivatives induces the lower absorption coefficient of the longest wavelength absorption band and the red-shift of the second longest wavelength absorption band. Both NDS and NDP exhibit much lower fluorescence quantum yields than their related compounds.

Dentatacid A: An Unprecedented 2, 3-Seco-arbor-2, 3-dioic Triterpenoid from the Invasive Plant Euphorbia dentata, with Cytotoxicity Effect on Colon Cancer

Euphorbia dentata Michx. is an invasive plant species in China, known for its toxicity and potential to reduce crop yields, posing numerous threats. To gain a deeper understanding of this invasive plant, phytochemical methods were employed to isolate 13 terpenoids (1-11, 19, 20) and 7 sterols (12-18) from the ethanol extract of E. dentata, identifying one new compound and 19 known compounds. Within spectroscopic methods such as NMR, HR-ESI-MS, and ECD, the structures and absolute configurations of these compounds were established. Among them, dentatacid A (11) possesses an unprecedented 2, 3-seco-arbor-2, 3-dioic skeleton within the potential biosynthetic pathway proposed. Dentatacid A also exhibited excellent anti-proliferative activity against the HT-29 (human colorectal adenocarcinoma) cell line, with an IC50 value of 2.64 ± 0.78 μM, which was further confirmed through network pharmacology and molecular docking. This study significantly expands the chemical diversity of E. dentata and offers new insights into the resource utilization and management of this invasive plant from the perspective of natural product discovery.

Discriminating Clockwise and Counterclockwise Photoisomerization Paths in Achiral Photoswitches by Excited-State Electronic Circular Dichroism

Despite the numerous investigations of photoisomerization reactions from both the computational and experimental points of view, even in complex environments, to date there is no direct demonstration of the direction of rotation of the retinal chromophore, initiating the vision process in several organisms, occurring upon light irradiation. In the literature, many proposals have been formulated to shed light on the details of this process, most of which are extracted from semiclassical simulations. Although high hopes are held in the development of time-resolved X-ray spectroscopy, I argue in this work that simpler but less known techniques can be used to unravel the details of this fascinating photochemical process. In fact, chiroptical spectroscopy would unambiguously prove the direction of the rotatory motion of the chromophore during the photoisomerization process by probing excited state chirality, a piece of information that, so far, has been exclusively extracted from atomistic simulations. I demonstrate this statement by computing the expected chiroptical response along photoisomerization pathways for several models of the retinal chromophores that are found in nature bound to rhodopsins, including nuclear ensemble spectra from semiclassical dynamics simulations, that can be compared with time-resolved experiments.

New phenanthrenequinones from Cymbidium ensifolium roots and their anti-inflammatory activity on lipopolysaccharide-activated BV2 microglial cells

The roots of Cymbidium ensifolium yielded a total of 17 compounds, comprising two new compounds (1-2), one new natural product (3), and 14 known compounds (4-17). The structures of new compounds were determined through the analysis of their spectroscopic data, including NMR, MS, UV, FT-IR, optical rotation, and CD. The anti-inflammatory activity of the isolated pure compounds was assessed using lipopolysaccharide-activated BV2 microglial cells. Compounds 1, 3, 6, 12, 14, and 16 showed the ability to reduce LPS induced NO release in BV2 microglial cells, with IC50 values of 9.95 ± 2.13, 8.77 ± 3.78, 2.39 ± 0.91, 6.69 ± 2.94, 2.96 ± 1.38, 8.42 ± 2.99 μM, respectively and reduced the secretion of proinflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1) in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, the mechanistic role of the compound 3 was determined, which demonstrated its ability to inhibit the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway through decreasing phosphorylation of p65 subunits.

Antiviral miliusanes and isolation of an unprecedented miliusane dimer from Miliusa balansae

In an extensive screening endeavor for anti-coronaviral compounds, we examined 824 tropical plant extracts from the Annonaceae and Rutaceae families. The screening identified an ethyl acetate extract from the aerial parts of Miliusa balansae for its potent inhibitory activity against Human coronavirus HCoV-229E. Subsequent bioassay-guided fractionation of this extract revealed two unreported miliusanes including a complex dimeric structure and seven known compounds, comprising miliusane XXXVI, (+)-miliusol, bistyryls, styryl-pyranones, and the flavonoid rhamnetin. The absolute configuration of the new dimeric miliusane was determined by X-ray crystallography and a putative biogenetic origin was proposed. Investigation of the antiviral effect of these nine phytochemicals within HCoV-229E-infected Huh-7 cells showed that (+)-miliusol and miliusane XXXVI exert antiviral activity at non-cytotoxic concentrations, with IC50 values of 1.15 μM and 19.20 μM, respectively. Furthermore, these compounds significantly inhibited SARS-CoV-2 infection in Vero cells, presenting IC50 values of 11.31 μM for (+)-miliusol and 17.92 μM for miliusane XXXVI. Additionally, both compounds exhibited a potent antiviral effect against the emergent mosquito-borne Zika virus, with IC50 values of 1.34 μM and 23.45 μM, respectively. Time-of-addition assays suggest that their mechanism of action might target later stages of the viral cycle, indicating potential modulation of specific cellular pathways. These findings reinforce the invaluable contribution of medicinal flora as reservoirs of natural antiviral agents and emphasize their prospective role in combatting viruses of medical interest.

Diaporpyrone E, an undescribed α-pyrone from the endophytic fungus Diaporthe sp. CB10100

An undescribed α-pyrone diaporpyrone E (1), and three known nucleotides, 5'-O-acetyl uridine (2), 5'-O-acetyl thymidine (3), and adenine (4), were identified from Diaporthe sp. CB10100, an endophytic fungus isolated from the medicinal plant Sinomenium acutum. The structure of 1 was determined by extensive analysis of its HRMS, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data, as well as electronic circular dichroism calculations and comparison. The in vitro cytotoxic and antibacterial assays of 1 revealed that it has a 30.2% inhibitory effect on HepG2 cells at 50 μM, while no antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae at 64 μg/mL.

Flavonoidal alkaloids from the flowers of Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M.King & H.Rob

A pair of epimers of flavonoid alkaloids, with a pyrrolidone moiety, 2S,5''R-eupodoratin A (1), 2S,5''S-eupodoratin A (2), together with two known analogues, drahebephin A (3), drahebephin B (4), were isolated from the flowers of Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M.King & H.Rob. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of HR-ESI-MS, 1D/2D NMR spectral analyses. The absolute configuration of compounds (1) and (2) was determined by its experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. All compounds were isolated from the Asteraceae family for the first time. The ABTS·+ scavenging activity of compound (4) reached 93.56% at a concentration of 0.5 mM, while the scavenging capacity of positive control Trolox was 55.94%. In addition, all compounds show moderate antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli (ATCC, 337304), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC, 337371) and Candida albicans (ATCC, 186382) with a MIC value of more than 50 µg/mL.

Germacrane-type sesquiterpenes from Pilea cavaleriei Levl. subsp. cavaleriei

The first systematic investigation of germacrane-type sesquiterpenes from Pilea cavaleriei Levl. subsp. cavaleriei was conducted. Eleven undescribed germacrane analogues named cavalinols A-K were identified. Their planar structures were determined by extensive analysis of 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data, and the absolute configurations were further determined by X-ray single crystal diffraction, Mosher method, and time dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) electron circular dichroism (ECD) calculation, with the aid from DFT NMR calculation and NOESY experiment. Except for the common 10-memebered ring, ten new compounds contained a p-coumaroyl sidechain connected to C-8 of the nucleus skeleton. All the isolated compounds were screened for anti-inflammatory activity in LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, and compounds 5 and 6 showed moderate activity.

Targeted discovery of unusual diterpenoids with anti-fungal activity from the root of Euphorbia lathyris

Lathyrisone A (1), a diterpene with an undescribed tricyclic 6/6/6 fused carbon skeleton, along with spirolathyrisins B-D (3-5), three diterpenes with a rare [4.5.0] spirocyclic carbon skeleton, and one known compound (2) were isolated from the roots of Euphorbia lathyris. Their chemical structures were characterized by extensive spectroscopic analysis, X-ray crystallography, ECD and quantum chemistry calculation. A plausible biosynthetic pathway for compounds 1-5 was proposed, which suggested it is a competitive pathway for ingenol biosynthesis in the plant. The anti-fungal activities of these compounds were tested, especially, compound 2 showed stronger anti-fungal activities against Fusarium oxysporum and Alternaria alternata than the positive control fungicide thiophanate-methyl. The preliminary structure-activity relationship of compounds 1-5 was also discussed. These results not only expanded the chemical diversities of E. lathyris, but also provided a lead compound for the control of plant pathogens.

Monoterpene-chalcone conjugates and diarylheptanoids isolated from the seeds of Alpinia katsumadai Hayata with cytotoxic activity

Five undescribed monoterpene-chalcone conjugates (1-5), one undescribed hypothetical precursor of diarylheptanoid (6), two undescribed diarylheptanoids (7-8), and fourteen known compounds (9-22) were isolated from the seeds of Alpinia katsumadai. Their structures were elucidated through the interpretation of HRESIMS, NMR, ECD, and X-ray diffraction data. MTT assays on human cancer cell lines (HepG2, A549, SGC7901, and SW480) revealed that compounds 3-8, 11, and 13 exhibited broad-spectrum antiproliferative activities with IC50 values ranging from 3.59 to 21.78 μM. B cell lymphoma 2 was predicted as the target of sumadain C (11) by network pharmacology and verified by homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence assay and molecular docking.

Sesquiterpenoids from the roots and rhizomes of Valeriana officinalis var. latifolia

The genus Valeriana is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat nervous disorders, sleep disorders, epilepsy and skin diseases. A large number of sesquiterpenoids from this genus have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, anti-influenza virus and neuroprotective activities. In order to discover more sesquiterpenoids with structural diversity and bioactivity from Valeriana plants, fifteen sesquiterpenoids, including ten undescribed ones, valernaenes A-J (1, 5-7, 9-11 and 13-15), were isolated from the roots and rhizomes of Valeriana officinalis var. latifolia. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic techniques (1D, 2D NMR and HRESIMS) and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculation. Structurally, valernaenes C (6) and D (7) were two caryophyllane-type norsesquiterpenoids. In addition, valernaenes A (1) and F (10) exhibited anti-influenza virus activity with EC50 values of 38.76 ± 1.44 and 23.01 ± 4.89 μM, respectively. Furthermore, caryophyllenol A (2) showed promoting effect on nerve growth factor (NGF)-mediated neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells with differentiation rate of 12.26% at a concentration of 10 μM. This study not only enriched the structural diversity of sesquiterpenoids in the genus Valeriana, but also provided theoretical basis for the discovery of anti-influenza virus and neuroprotective agents from this genus.

Three undescribed coumarins from the roots of Angelica pubescens

Three undescribed coumarins, 6-(3-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-7-methoxycoumarin (1), (R)-6-(1,3-dihydroxy-3-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-7-methoxycoumarin (2), angelol N (6), together with four known coumarins were isolated from the roots of Angelica pubescens. Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses. The absolute configurations of compounds 2 and 6 were assigned via electronic circular dichroism (ECD). Their inhibitory effects on lipopoly-saccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW264.7 cells were evaluated. Compounds 1-4 exhibited moderate inhibitory activities.

UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis of ophiobolins sesterterpenoids and bioactive analogs from Bipolaris eleusines

In order to elucidate the mass fragmentation patterns and unveil more undescribed ophiobolin analogs, the mass fragmentation patterns of ophiobolins were analyzed based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS experiments. Different kinds of rearrangements (including McLafferty rearrangement) were the main cleavage patterns. Twenty-six (9-31) analogs were then tentatively characterized based on their mass analysis, and three undescribed ophiobolins (6-8) and a known analogue (5) were isolated in target. Compound 5 possesses a rare polycyclic carbon skeleton only recently reported, and compound 6 contains an undescribed lactone ring system fused with A/B ring at C-3/C-21, whereas compounds 7 and 8 have a peroxyl group in the side chain, which is the first reported in all ophiobolins. Compounds 5 and 7 displayed significant cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cancer cells.

Chalcone-Monoterpene Derivatives from the Buds of Cleistocalyx operculatus and Their Potential as Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B Inhibitors

Four new compounds, racemic chalcone-monoterpene hybrids (1-3) and a chalcone (9), along with nine known compounds (4-8, 10-13), have been isolated from the buds of Cleistocalyx operculatus. The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were identified through NMR data analysis and confirmed by computational methods, including electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations, and further synthetic approaches. Compounds 1-5 were synthesized via a Diels-Alder reaction, a process informed by biomimetic condensation studies that combined chalcones and monoterpenes. These synthetic approaches also yielded various unnatural chalcone-monoterpene derivatives (14-23). The inhibitory effects on protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) of both naturally isolated and synthetically obtained compounds were evaluated. Compounds 4, 9, 13, and 16b exhibited potent PTP1B inhibitory activity, with IC50 values ranging from 0.9 ± 0.2 to 3.9 ± 0.7 μM. The enantiomers (+)-4 and (-)-16b showed enhanced activity compared to their respective enantiomers. Kinetic studies indicate that all active compounds inhibit PTP1B through mixed mechanisms, and molecular docking simulations agree with the experimental assays on PTP1B. Our results suggest that chalcone-meroterpene adducts from the buds of C. operculatus exhibit potential as antidiabetic agents, partly due to their PTP1B enzyme inhibition.

Anti-inflammatory Lindenane Sesquiterpene Dimers from the Roots of Chloranthus fortunei

In this study, eight lindenane-type sesquiterpene dimers, including five previously undescribed sesquiterpene dimers (1-5), were isolated from the roots of Chloranthus fortunei, and their structures were elucidated using 1D/2D NMR, HRESIMS, and ECD calculations. Compound 1 presents the second example of a type of novel 8,9-seco lindenane-type sesquiterpene dimer, considered a product of 8/9-diketone oxidation. Compounds 2 and 3 represent the third and fourth examples, respectively, of this kind of C-11 methine dimer. Furthermore, compound 4 was considered as an artifact generated from the radical reaction of a known compound chlojaponilide F (6), which was explained by the density functional theory quantum calculation. All isolates were evaluated for their protective activity against the LPS-induced pulmonary epithelial cell line with compound 7 exhibiting the most potent bioactivity. Further in vitro biological evaluation demonstrated that 7 reduced the production of reactive oxygen species and interleukin-1β, further regulated by the expression of the NLRP3. These results show that compound 7 exhibits therapeutic potential for lung inflammatory diseases.

Four new homoisoflavonoids from Caesalpinia pulcherrima

Four new homoisoflavonoids, 7-hydroxy-3-[hydroxy(4'-methoxyphenyl)methyl]-benzopyran-4-one (1), (3R)-7, 8-dihydroxy-3-(4'-methoxybenzyl)-chroman-4-one (2), 7-hydroxy-3-(2'-hydroxy-4'-methoxybenzyl)-chroman-4-one (3), and 7-hydroxy-3-(2'-hydroxy-4'-methoxybenzyl)-benzopyran-4-one (4), were isolated from the seeds of Caesalpinia pulcherrima. The structures of new compounds were elucidated by MS and NMR spectra. Their absolute configurations were assigned using electronic circular dichroism spectrum. Compounds 2 and 4 exhibited cytotoxic effects on MCF-7/TAM cells with the IC50 values of 101.4 ± 0.03 and 93.02 ± 0.03 μM, respectively.

Laburnicolamine: A Rare Penillic Acid Congener from the Nematode Cyst-Associated Fungus Laburnicola nematophila

A chemical investigation of a methanol extract derived from a solid-state rice culture of the nematode-cyst associated fungus Laburnicola nematophila K01 led to the isolation and characterization of a previously undescribed penillic acid analogue named laburnicolamine (1). The chemical structure was elucidated through comprehensive 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analyses in methanol-d4 and DMSO-d6, alongside with HR-ESI-MS spectrometry. The absolute configuration of 1 was concluded through the electronic circular dichroism (ECD) and time-dependent density functional theory-ECD (TDDFT-ECD) computations compared to its acquired spectrum. Biological assays revealed that compound 1 exhibited no significant cytotoxic, antimicrobial, or nematicidal activity.

Crotonoids A-H, Labdane-Type Diterpenoids with Anti-Inflammatory Activity from Croton Sublyratus

Croton sublyratus (Euphorbiaceae) is a traditional medicinal plant used by the Thai populace to treat helminthic infections and dermatologic conditions. In present study, eight new labdane-type diterpenoids, crotonoids A-H (1-8) and one known analogue (9) were isolated from the aerial parts of C. sublyratus. Compounds 6 and 7 belong to the rare class of 14,15-dinor-labdane diterpenoids. Compound 8 exhibited a rare 14,15,17-trinor-labdane skeleton. The structures of all these diterpenoids were elucidated by spectroscopic data analysis, electronic circular dichroism calculations, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Compound 9 exhibited moderate anti-inflammatory activity via the inhibition of NO production in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 cells.

Two pairs of new isobenzofuranone enantiomers from a soil-derived fungus Penicillium canescens DWS225

Two pairs of new isobenzofuranone derivative enantiomers, (±)-penicifurans E (1) and (±)-penicifurans F (2), together with four know compounds (3-6) were isolated from the solid fermentation of Penicillium canescens DWS225. The structures of these enantiomers were elucidated by extensive NMR spectroscopic data, and their absolute configurations were assigned by the experimental and calculated ECD data. The neuroprotective effects of all the isolates against oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion injury in pheochromocytoma-12 cells (PC12) were investigated.

Four new phenolic constituents from root barks of Paeonia ostii

The Paeonia ostii, also known as "Feng Dan" have a crucial role in folk medicine to treat lumbar muscles strain, knee osteoarthritis and cervical spondylosis. In this study, four new phenolic compounds, specifically Paeoniaostiph A-E (1-4) phenolic compounds were characterised through spectroscopic techniques, including 1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS, UV, IR, and electronic circular dichroism computations to explore their structures. Cytotoxicity and NO production inhibition of the new phenolic compounds were also studied. The results of the cytotoxicity experiment showed that compound 1 is cytotoxic to two human cancer cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 13.3 to 13.5 μM. Compounds 1 and 2 showed certain inhibitory activity on NO production. This is the first report on isolating the components from natural sources.

Chemoreactive 2,5-Diketopiperazines from a Penicillium sp., Structure Revision of Reported Analogues and Proposed Facile Transformation Pathways

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive cutaneous cancer. Two new prenylated indole 2,5-diketopiperazine alkaloids, brevianamides E1 (1) and E2 (2), were isolated from a Penicillium fungus. Both compounds showed moderate cytotoxic activity against select MCC cell lines (i.e., MCC13, MKL-1, UISO, and WaGa) in the low micromolar range. The relative and absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined by combined approaches, including NOESY spectroscopy, DFT ECD and DP4 plus calculations, and Marfey's reaction. Literature research and the comparison of NMR and ECD data led to the structure revision of three previously reported natural analogues, notoamides K and P and asperversiamide L. The structurally unstable 1 and 2 underwent steady interconversion under neutral aqueous conditions. Investigation of the degradation of 2 in acidic methanol solutions led to the identification of a new methoxylated derivative (6) and two new ring-opened products (7 and 8) with the rearranged, elongated, 4-methylpent-3-ene side chain. The facile transformation of 2 to 7 and 8 was promoted by the intrinsic impurity (i.e., formaldehyde) of HPLC-grade methanol through the aza-Cope rearrangement.

Phenolic Constituents with Glucose Uptake and GLUT4 Translocation Bioactivities from the Fruits of Cordia dichotoma

From the fruits of Cordia dichotoma, 11 new phenolic compounds, dichotomins A-K, were isolated, together with 19 known compounds. Through the analysis of detailed NMR data and HRESIMS data, the planar structures of all compounds were confirmed. Using NMR calculations, the absolute configuration of dichotomins A-K was elucidated by comparing their observed and computed electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. Dichotomin H (8) and dichotomin I (9) were determined as two pairs of enantiomers. The enantiomers of compounds 8 and 9 were separated using chiral-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and the stereostructure of each enantiomer was determined by similarly calculating the ECD. Compounds 3, 5, 7, 17, 18, 23-25, and 27-30 increased glucose uptake by 1.04- to 2.85-folds at concentrations of 30 μg/mL. Further studies revealed that compounds 3 and 5 had a moderate effect on glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation activity in L6 cells. At 30 μg/mL, compound 3 significantly enhanced AMPK phosphorylation and GLUT4 expression. As a whole, compound 3 has the potential to be a drug candidate for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Bioactive Naphthoquinone and Phenazine Analogs from the Endophytic Streptomyces sp. PH9030 as α-Glucosidase Inhibitors

A talented endophytic Streptomyces sp. PH9030 is derived from the medicinal plant Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A.C. Smith. The undescribed naphthoquinone naphthgeranine G (5) and seven previously identified compounds, 6-12, were obtained from Streptomyces sp. PH9030. The structure of 5 was identified by comprehensive examination of its HRESIMS, 1D NMR, 2D NMR and ECD data. The inhibitory activities of all the compounds toward α-glucosidase and their antibacterial properties were investigated. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of 5, 6, 7 and 9 were reported for the first time, with IC50 values ranging from 66.4 ± 6.7 to 185.9 ± 0.2 μM, as compared with acarbose (IC50 = 671.5 ± 0.2 μM). The molecular docking and molecular dynamics analysis of 5 with α-glucosidase further indicated that it may have a good binding ability with α-glucosidase. Both 9 and 12 exhibited moderate antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 16 μg/mL. These results indicate that 5, together with the naphthoquinone scaffold, has the potential to be further developed as a possible inhibitor of α-glucosidase.

A new pair of butylphthalide diastereomers from the roots of Angelica sinensis

A new pair of butylphthalide diastereomers, dangguinolide A (1) and dangguinolide B (2), together with two known butylphthalide were isolated from Angelica sinensis. Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses, and the absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were assigned via NMR calculations and ECD calculations. Their anti-inflammatory activities have evaluated in vitro.

Chromomycins from soil-derived Streptomyces sp. inhibit the growth of human non-small cell lung cancer cells by targeting c-FLIP

Three chromomycin derivatives, chromomycins A3 (1, CA3), A5 (2, CA5), and monodeacetylchromomycin A3 (3, MDA-CA3), were identified from the soil-derived Streptomyces sp. CGMCC 26516. A reinvestigation of the structure of CA5 is reported, of which the absolute configuration was unambiguously determined for the first time to be identical with that of CA3 based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data analysis as well as NMR and electronic circular dichroism calculations. Compounds 1-3 showed potent cytotoxicity against the non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells (A549, H460, H157-c-FLIP, and H157-LacZ) and down-regulated the protein expression of c-FLIP in A549 cells. The IC50 values of chromomycins in H157-c-FLIP were higher than that in H157-LacZ. Furthermore, si-c-FLIP promoted anti-proliferation effect of chromomycins in NSCLC cells. In nude mice xenograft model, 1 and 2 both showed more potent inhibition on the growth of H157-lacZ xenografts than that of H157-c-FLIP xenografts. These results verify that c-FLIP mediates the anticancer effects of chromomycins in NSCLC.

Harzianolides B-G: Undescribed Butenolides isolated from the fungus Trichoderma harzianum ZN-4

Five undescribed γ-butyrolactones harzianolides BF (1-5), one precursor harzianolide G (6) along with two known analogues, were isolated and identified from the EtOAc extract of the liquid fermentation of Trichoderma harzianum ZN-4, which was obtained from the sediment of Zhoushan coastal area. Notably, compound 1 featured an unusual carbon skeleton with methylene-bridged furan rings system. Their structures were determined by detailed interpretation of NMR and mass spectroscopic data, and the absolute configurations were unambiguously established based on ECD quantum chemical calculations. In bioassay, 1 and 7 showed inhibitory activity against Pestalotiopsis theae, with MIC values of 25 and 50 μg/mL, respectively.

Diorygmones A-B, two new guaiane-sesquiterpenes from the cultured lichen mycobiont of Diorygma sp

Diorygma sp. is a native crustose-lichen in Vietnam. A mycobiont of this lichen was isolated, then cultivated. The present study described the isolation and structural elucidation of two new guaiane-type sesquiterpenes, namely diorygmones A-B. Their absolute chemical structures were elucidated by extensive 1D and 2D NMR analysis, high-resolution mass spectroscopy, electronic circular dichroism (ECD), and comparisons with the literatures. Compounds 1 and 2 were evaluated for cytotoxic activity against HepG2 cell line.

Lycopodium alkaloids from Huperzia serrata and their cholinesterase inhibitory activities

Huperzia serrata, belonging to the Lycopodiaceae family, has been traditionally utilized for the management of treating rheumatic numbness, arthritic pain, dysmenorrhea, and contusions. This plant is a rich source of lycopodium alkaloids, some of which have demonstrated notable cholinesterase inhibitory activity. The objective of this study was to identify lycopodium alkaloids with cholinesterase inhibitory properties from H. serrata. The structures of these alkaloids were elucidated by HRESIMS, NMR (including a 1H-15N HMBC experiment), ECD methods and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The inhibitory activities against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) were assessed using a modified Ellman's method. Consequently, sixteen lycopodium alkaloids (1-16), including ten previously undescribed ones named huperradines A-G and huperradines I-K (1-7 and 9-11), along with one previously undescribed naturally occurring compound, huperradine H (8), were isolated from H. serrata. Among these, compounds 7 and 1 exhibited potent and moderate AChE inhibition, with IC50 values of 0.876 ± 0.039 μM and 13.125 ± 0.521 μM, respectively. Our results suggest that huperradine G (7) may be a promising lead compound for the development of new AChE inhibitors for Alzheimer's disease.

Six new diterpenoids with anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activity from Isodon serra

Diterpenoids occupy an important slot of the natural products diversity space with wide ranges of bioactivities and complex structures, providing potential applications for the development of therapeutics. In this study, we reported four new abietane-type diterpenoids viroxocin B-E (1-4), a new totarane-type diterpenoid viroxocin F (5), and a new sempervirane-type diterpenoid viroxocin G (6) along with four known compounds (7-10), isolated and identified from a widely used Traditional Chinese Medicine, Isodon serra (I. serra). Their structures were established by spectroscopic data analysis, experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) data, as well as X-ray diffraction analysis. Compounds 2, 5, 7, 8 and 10 exhibited promising anti-inflammatory activities in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 267.4 cells, and their inhibition rates on NO production were more than 60% at 10 μM. Compound 7 showed cytotoxicity against human renal cell carcinoma 769P at 20 μM, the inhibition rate was 52.66%.

Two new oleanane triterpenes from Maytenus hookeri

Two new triterpenes mayteneri A (1), mayteneri B (2), and seven known compounds (3-9) were isolated from stems of Maytenus hookeri Loes. The chemical structures of compounds 1 and 2 were established by 1D, 2D NMR, HRESIMS analysis, and calculating electronic circular dichroism (ECD). The structures of known compounds 3-9 were determined by comparison of their spectral with those reported. Compounds 4-7 showed significant inhibitory activity for NLRP3 inflammasome, with the IC50 values of 2.36-3.44 μM.

Phellintremulins A-C, antinociceptive sesquiterpenoids from the medicinal fungus Phellinus tremulae

Phellintremulin A (1), a rearranged sesquiterpenoid with an unprecedented bicyclic backbone, and two previously unreported illudane-type sesquiterpenoids, namely phellintremulin B (2) and phellintremulin C (3), together with two known analogues (±)‒4 and (±)‒5, were isolated from cultures of the medicinal fungus Phellinus tremulae. Their structures and absolute configurations were established by means of spectroscopic data and HRESIMS analyses, as well as ECD and NMR calculations. A plausible biogenesis for 1 was discussed. The electrophysiological experiments showed that phellintremulins (A‒C) can inhibit Nav current in DRG neuron cells at 10 μM, with percentage inhibitions of 23.2%, 49.3%, and 31.7%, respectively. The antinociceptive activities of phellintremulins (A‒C) were evaluated via the acetic acid-induced writhing test in mice at a dose of 3 mg/kg. They showed significant antinociceptive effects with percentages of inhibition of 43.8%, 54.4%, and 50.6%, respectively, and phellintremulin B and C expressed more potent analgesic effect than lidocaine.

Structurally diverse isoquinoline alkaloids from the barks of Alangium salviifolium (L. f.) Wangerin and their cytotoxicity

Eleven undescribed isoquinoline alkaloids (1-8, 14, 15, and 24), along with 19 analogues (9-13, 16-23, and 25-30) were isolated from the barks of Alangium salviifolium. The structures of the undescribed compounds were elucidated through the analysis of their HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR, IR, UV, and X-ray diffraction. The absolute configuration of 8 was established via the ECD calculation. Notably, compounds 1/2 and 3/4 were two pairs of C-14 epimers. The isolated alkaloids were evaluated for their cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines, including SGC-7901, HeLa, K562, A549, BEL-7402, HepG2, and B16, β-carboline-benzoquinolizidine (14-22) and cepheline-type (24-28) alkaloids exhibited remarkable cytotoxicity, with IC50 values ranging from 0.01 to 48.12 μM. Remarkably, compounds 17 and 21 demonstrated greater cytotoxicity than the positive control doxorubicin hydrochloride. Furthermore, a significant proportion of these bioactive alkaloids possess a C-1' epimer configuration. The exploration of their structure-activity relationship holds promise for directing future investigations into alkaloids derived from Alangium, potentially leading to novel insights and therapeutic advancements.

Albiflorenes A-L, polyoxygenated cyclohex(a/e)ne diterpene esters from Kaempferia albiflora

Twelve polyoxygenated cyclohex(a/e)ne diterpene esters, named albiflorenes A-L (1-12), were isolated from the whole plants of Kaempferia albiflora, known as "Prao Mang Mum." Their structures and relative stereochemistry were determined by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Furthermore, the comparison of experimental electronic circular dichroism (ECD) curves with the curves predicted by TDDFT was used to determine the absolute configurations. Albiflorenes contain polyoxygenated cyclohexane (or cyclohexene) derivatives, which are linked to either isopimarane or abietane diterpene acid units. The discovery marks the first occurrence of a conjugate between polyoxygenated cyclohexane (or cyclohexene) rings and diterpenoids. Among the isolates, albiflorene C specifically exhibited antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus with MIC and MBC values of 3.13 and 6.25 μg/mL, respectively.

Dentifragilones A-B and Other Benzoic Acid Derivatives from the European Basidiomycete Dentipellis fragilis

A chemical and biological exploration of the European polypore Dentipellis fragilis afforded two previously undescribed natural products (1 and 2), together with three known derivatives (3-5). Chemical structures of the isolated compounds were confirmed through 1D/2D NMR spectroscopic analyses, mass spectrometry, and by comparison with the reported literature. The relative and absolute configurations of 1 were determined according to the ROESY spectrum and time-dependent density functional theory electronic circular dichroism (TDDFT-ECD), respectively. Furthermore, the absolute configuration of dentipellinol (3) was revisited and revealed to be of (R) configuration. All the isolated compounds were assessed for their cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities, with some being revealed to have weak to moderate antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria.

A polysubstituted cyclopentane and two glycerol esters from the engineered strain Streptomyces sp. S35-LAL1

Activation of silencing gene clusters is an important way to discover structurally novel compounds. In this study, three undescribed compounds were obtained from an engineered strain of Streptomyces sp. S35-LAL1. They include a polysubstituted cyclopentane with an unprecedented 10-carbon skeleton (1) and two glycerol esters (2 and 3). The structures of compounds 1-3 were elucidated through analysis of their spectroscopic data including 1D, 2D NMR, optical rotation, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD).

Diaporchalasin A, a new PDE4 inhibitory cytochalasin from Conus marmoreus-derived fungus Diaporthe sp. XMA007

A novel cytochalasin named diaporchalasin A (1) bearing a cinnamenyl and an epoxy-macrocycloketone, and a new benzenepropionic acid derivative (2), and two known compounds (3 and 4) were isolated from Conus marmoreus-derived fungus Diaporthe sp. XMA007. Their structures were elucidated through detailed spectroscopic analysis, and the absolute configuration of 1 was determined by conformational analysis and TDDFT-ECD calculation. Their activity evaluation on PDE4 inhibition and breast cancer cell cytotoxicity were conducted, and compound 1 showed moderate inhibition on PDE4.

Two Undescribed Germacrane-Type Sesquiterpenoids from Salvia cavaleriei var. simplicifolia Stib. and Their Anti-Alzheimer's Disease Activity

Two undescribed germacrane-type sesquiterpenoids, salcasins A (1) and B (2), together with three known compounds (3-5) were isolated and identified from the whole plant of Salvia cavaleriei var. simplicifolia Stib. The structures of the undescribed compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods, such as HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR data. The relative configurations of 1 and 2 were established by analyzing their NOESY spectra as well as by 13C NMR calculations with DP4+ probability analyses. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined by comparing experimental and calculated ECD spectra. Furthermore, the in vivo anti-Alzheimer's disease activities of 1-5 were evaluated using Caenorhabditis elegans AD pathological model. Among all isolated compounds, salcasin A (1) significantly delayed AD-like symptoms of worm paralysis, which may be a potential anti-AD candidate agent.

Structurally diverse phthalides from fibrous roots of Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. and their biological activities

Falonolide A (1) and B (2), two novel polyyne hybrid phthalides resulting from unprecedented carbon skeleton polymerized by Z-ligustilide and falcarindiol, along with six new related phthalides (3-8), were isolated from Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis, computer-assisted structure elucidation (CASE) analysis, DP4+ probability analysis and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. A plausible biosynthetic pathway for 1-8 was proposed, and the production mechanism of 2 was revealed by density functional theory (DFT) method. Compounds 4 and 6 exhibited significant vasodilatory activity with EC50 of 8.00 ± 0.86 and 6.92 ± 1.02 μM, respectively. Compound 4 also displayed significant inhibitory effect of NO production with EC50 value of 8.82 ± 0.30 μM. Based on the established compounds library, structure-activity relationship analysis of phthalides was explored to provide insights into the drug development of vasodilators and anti-flammatory.

Six unprecedented 2-(2-phenethyl)chromone dimers from agarwood of Aquilaria filaria

Six new dimeric 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromones (1-6) were successfully isolated from the ethanol extract of agarwood of Aquilaria filaria from Philippines under HPLC-MS guidance. Compounds 1-6 are all dimers formed by linking 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone and flindersia 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone via a single ether bond, and the linkage site (C5-O-C8'') of compound 2 is extremely rare. A variety of spectroscopic methods were used to ascertain their structures, including extensive 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis, HRESIMS, and comparison with literature. The in vitro tyrosinase inhibitory and anti-inflammatory activities of each isolate were assessed. Among these compounds, compound 2 had a tyrosinase inhibition effect with an IC50 value of 27.71 ± 2.60 μM, and compound 4 exhibited moderate inhibition of nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells with an IC50 value of 35.40 ± 1.04 μM.

Harzianic acids and oxazolidinone from the endophytic fungus Ilyonectria sp. and their cytotoxicity activity

Four undescribed compounds including three harzianic acids (1, 3 and 4) and one oxazolidinone (2), along with three known ones (5-7) were isolated from the solid fermented product of endophytic fungus Ilyonectria sp., their structures were elucidated as 1-amino-harzianic acid (1), ilyonectria-oxazolidinone (2),10'-nor- isoharzianic acid (3), isohomoharzianic acid (4), harzianic acid (5), isoharzianic acid (6), homoharzianic acid (7) by means of detailed chemical evidences and spectroscopic data analysis. All the compounds were evaluated for cytotoxicity against SMMC-7721 human cancer cell lines by MTS assay. Among the seven tested compounds, 1-amino-harzianic acid (1) demonstrated well cytotoxic activity against SMMC-7721 with IC50 value of 26.84 μM. The results of molecular docking indicated that compound exhibited moderate anti-tumor activity may through binding to apoptosis related proteins.