Synthesis of a Coumarin-Based Analogue of Schweinfurthin F

Total Syntheses, Absolute Configurations, and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Ugonstilbenes A, B, and C from the Rhizomes of Helminthostachys zeylanica

This study describes the first and efficient syntheses of the naturally occurring ugonstilbenes A, B, and C. The stilbene skeleton was prepared using the Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction. On the basis of their specific rotations, the absolute configurations of ugonstilbenes A and C were both determined to be R, while the absolute configuration of ugonstilbene B was determined as 4aS,9aR. The synthesized compounds showed cytotoxic activities against selected human cancer cell lines.

Structure, function and small molecule modulation of intracellular sterol transport proteins

Intracellular sterol transport proteins (STPs) are crucial for maintaining cellular lipid homeostasis by regulating local sterol pools. Despite structural similarities in their sterol binding domains, STPs have different substrate specificities, intracellular localisation and biological functions. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the determination of STP structures and how this regulates their lipid specificities. Furthermore, we cover the important discoveries relating to the intracellular localisation of STPs, and the organelles between which lipid transport is carried out, giving rise to specific functions in health and disease. Finally, serendipitous and targeted efforts to identify small molecule modulators of STPs, as well as their ability to act as tool compounds and potential therapeutics, will be discussed.

Plant Growth Suppressive Activity of (R)-3-(7'-Aryl-9'-hydroxyprop-8'-yl)coumarin, Structural Isomer of Z-2-Hydroxybenzylidene-γ-butyrolactone-type Lignan

3-(7'-Aryl-9'-hydroxyprop-8'-yl)coumarin, which is a structural isomer of a Z-2-hydroxybenzylidene-γ-butyrolactone-type lignan, was stereoselectively synthesized and subjected to plant growth regulation examination. (R)-4'-Methoxyphenyl derivative 3 showed stereospecific plant growth suppressive activity. The significance of the presence of hydroxy group at the 9'-position for the activity was clarified. The effect of the substituent at the 7'-aryl group was also shown. The 3'-methoxy, 4'-methoxy, and 4'-trifluoromethyl derivatives 10, 3, and 22 led to the most significant growth suppression of Italian ryegrass roots. The 2'-methoxy derivative 9 and 4'-methoxy derivative 3 provided the most growth suppressive activity against lettuce shoots and roots, respectively.