3-Methyl-4,5-dihydro-oxepine, polyoxygenated seco-cyclohexenes and cyclohexenes from Uvaria flexuosa and their anti-inflammatory activity

The phytochemical investigation of the methanolic extract of Uvaria flexuosa (Annonaceae) leaves led to the isolation of seven compounds including, 3-methyl-4,5-dihydro-oxepine (flexuvaroxepine A), four polyoxygenated seco-cyclohexene (flexuvarin A-D) and two polyoxygenated cyclohexene (flexuvarol A-B) derivatives, together with four known flavones. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using different spectroscopic techniques. A plausible biogenetic route of the new compounds was discussed. The anti-inflammatory activity of the isolated compounds was evaluated by superoxide anion generation and elastase release assays. Among the tested compounds, flexuvarol B and chrysin showed the most potent anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting superoxide anion generation and elastase release from human neutrophils in response to fMLP with IC50 2.25-5.55μM. Moreover, 5-hydroxy-6,7-dimethoxy-flavone showed selective inhibitory activity on superoxide anion generation (IC50=1.19±0.34μM).

N-Methyl-N-styrylcinnamamide (lansamide) from Clausena lansium in Vietnam

The title compound, C₁₈H₁₇NO, was isolated from the seeds of Clausena lansium (wampee) (Rutaceae). The X-ray crystal structure analysis confirmed its chemical identity and revealed that it is solvent-free, in contrast to the previously reported monohydrate [Huang, Ou & Tang (2006 ▶). Acta Cryst. E62, o1987–o1988]. The mol­ecular structures are practically identical but the mol­ecules pack differently. In contrast to the monohydrate in which the water molecule generates two hydrogen bonds, no such intermolecular contacts are present in the title compound. The dihedral angle between the cinnamamide and the styryl group is 53.1 (1)°.