Acylated pelargonidin glycosides from the red-purple flowers of Iberis umbellata L. and the red flowers of Erysimum × cheiri (L.) Crantz (Brassicaceae)

Five previously undescribed acylated pelargonidin 3-sophoroside-5-glucosides (pigments 2-6) were isolated from the red-purple flowers of Iberis umbellata L. 'Candycane Rose' and 'Candycane Red', in addition to a known one (pigment 1). The structures of five undescribed acylated anthocyanins were determined by chemical and spectroscopic methods to be pelargonidin 3-O-[2-O-(2-O-("acyl-A")-β-glucopyranosyl)-6-O-("acyl-B")-β-glucopyranoside]-5-O-[6-O-(malonyl)-β-glucopyranoside], in which the "acyl-A" group was either trans-sinapic (2), trans-ferulic (3), trans-sinapic (4), trans-ferulic (5), or trans-ferulic acid (6), and "acyl-B" was either glucosyl-trans-p-coumaric acid (2), glucosyl-trans-p-coumaric acid (3), trans-feruloyl-glucosyl-trans-p-coumaric acid (4), trans-feruloyl-glucosyl-trans-p-coumaric acid (5), or glucosyl-trans-feruloyl-glucosyl-trans-p-coumaric acid (6). Moreover, three previously undescribed acylated pelargonidin 3-sambubioside-5-glucosides (pigments 7, 8, and 10) and one undescribed acylated pelargonidin 3-(3^X-glucosylsambubioside)-5-glucoside (pigment 9) were isolated from the red flowers of Erysimum × cheiri (L.) Crantz 'Aurora' as major anthocyanins. The structures of the three undescribed acylated pelargonidin 3-sambubioside-5-glucosides were determined to be pelargonidin 3-O-[2-O-(2-O-("acyl-C")-β-xylopyranosyl)-6-O-("acyl-D")-β-glucopyranoside]-5-O-(β-glucopyranoside), in which the "acyl-C" group was either non (7), non (8), or trans-p-coumaric acid (10) and "acyl-D" was either trans-p-coumaric (7), trans-ferulic (8), or trans-p-coumaric acid (10). Moreover, a previously undescribed acylated pelargonidin 3-(3^X-glucosylsambubioside)-5-glucoside was identified to be pelargonidin 3-O-[2-O-(2-O-(trans-p-coumaroyl)-3-O-(β-glucopyranosyl)-β-xylopyranosyl)-6-O-(trans-p-coumaroyl)-β-glucopyranoside]-5-O-(β-glucopyranoside) (9). In addition, the distribution of anthocyanidins structural elements in 24 Brassicaceous species is compared.

Sterepinic Acids A⁻C, New Carboxylic Acids Produced by a Marine Alga-Derived Fungus

Sterepinic acids A⁻C (1⁻3), new carboxylic acids with two primary alcohols, have been isolated from a fungal strain of Stereum sp. OUPS-124D-1 attached to the marine alga Undaria pinnatifida. Dihydro-1,5-secovibralactone (4), a new vibralactone derivative, was isolated from the same fungal metabolites together with known vibralactone A (5), and 1,5-secovibralactone (6). The planar structures of these compounds have been elucidated by spectroscopic analyses using IR, HRFABMS, and NMR spectra. To determine the absolute configuration of the compounds, we used the phenylglycine methyl ester (PGME) method. These compounds exhibited less activity in the cytotoxicity assay against cancer cell lines.

3-Hydroxykynurenine Transamination Leads to the Formation of the Fluorescent Substances in Human Lenses

The levels of alanine, aspartate and glutamine transaminase increase considerably in some diseases. We measured the activity of these enzymes and of the transaminase of 3-hydroxykynurenine, an aminoacid, which acts as a UV lens filter. Alanine and glutamine transaminases (carboxypeptidase) were not detected in normal and cataractous human lenses, and aspartate transaminase was found only in the cortex of normal lenses. 3-hydroxykynurenine transaminase was not found in lenses from persons below thirty years of age, but was found in lenses at about fifty years of age, and in cataractous lenses. Transamination of 3-hydroxykynurenine leads to the formation of xanthurenic acid and its derivatives. These substances appear to be responsible for the increase of lens fluorescence during cataract development.

Isolation of hyperoside and isoquercitrin from Camellia sasanqua as antioxidant agents

Two antioxidant active compounds were isolated from the methanol extract of Camellia sasanqua using various in vitro assays: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), β-carotene bleaching and reducing power assays. The ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fraction of the methanol extract had the highest DPPH radical-scavenging activity with an Inhibition Concentration (IC50) value of 18.3 ± 1.63 μg mL(-1). Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography was used to separate the EtOAc fraction into eight fractions (F1-F8). Antioxidant activity was significantly higher in fraction 5 with an IC50 value 14.61 ± 0.02 μg mL(-1). Fraction 5 was further separated by HPLC preparative with Capcellpak C18 MG followed by the Cosmosil 5C18-AR-II column, using a guided DPPH radical-scavenging assay. The compounds isolated were identified as: Hyperoside (1) and isoquercitrin (2) after recrystallization from ethanol, based on Mass Spectrum (MS) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analyses. Their DPPH radical-scavenging activities based on the 50% scavenging concentration decreased in the following order: Isoquercitrin (21.6 mM) > hyperoside (27.5 mM). The antioxidant activities of hyperoside and isoquercitrin were 67.52 ± 0.64 and 64.33 ± 0.51%, respectively, in the β-carotene bleaching assay. These compounds were found to have good reducing powers (OD value: 2.5-3.8) at concentrations of 50-140 μg mL(-1), using the potassium ferricyanide reduction method. Although, these compounds are well-known, hyperoside (1) was isolated from this herb for the first time.

Thiocyanate-free ruthenium(II) sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells based on the cobalt redox couple

Two thiocyanate-free ruthenium(II) sensitizers, TFRS-41 and TFRS-42, with distinctive dialkoxyphenyl thienyl substituents were successfully prepared and tested for potential applications in making dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). Subsequent device fabrication was conducted by using a [Co(bpy)3 ](2+/3+) -based (bpy=2,2'-bipyridine) electrolyte, for which the best performance data, namely, JSC =13.11 mA cm(-2) , VOC =862 mV, fill factor=0.771, and η=8.71%, were recorded for the sensitizer TFRS-42 with a 2,6-dialkoxyphenyl substituent under AM 1.5G irradiation. The markedly higher Voc value was confirmed by the longer electron lifetime revealed in transient photovoltage (TPV) measurements versus the TFRS-1 sensitizer. In addition, DFT calculation and detailed first-principles computational analysis were conducted to provide a rationale for the observed trends in their photovoltaic performances and electron lifetimes, with reference to different performances exhibited by three thiocyanate-free sensitizers, TFRS-1, TFRS-41 and TFRS-42, versus Z907 reference. Through the proper control of peripheral substituents, the thiocyanate-free ruthenium(II)-based DSC sensitizers can positively influence the performances of DSCs, with better light-harvesting capability and suppressed charge recombination, for DSC cells fabricated by using a [Co(bpy)3 ](2+/3+) -based electrolyte.

Fabrication and electroluminescence properties of white organic light-emitting diode with a new yellow fluorescent dopant

A new yellow fluorescent material, (2Z)-3-[4,4"-bis(dimethylamino)-1,1':4',1"-terphenyl-2'-yl]-2-phenylacrylonitrile (BDAT-P), have been synthesized for use in organic light-emitting diodes. Opto-electronic properties of device with the structure of ITO (180 nm)/NPB (50 nm)/MADN:PFVtPh (SYB-41) 8% (17 nm)/CBP (5 nm)/CBP:Ir(pq)2acac 8% (3 nm)/CBP (5 nm)/MADN:BDAT-P 8% (3 nm)/CBP (5 nm)/MADN:SYB-41 8% (17 nm)/TPBi (40 nm)/Liq (2 nm)/Al (100 nm) was measured and revealed that BDAT-P was sufficiently applicable as a dopant of one of emitting layers in white light-emitting diodes. Maximum luminance of device was measured to be 26,950 cd/m2. Maximum luminous and quantum efficiency were observed to be 14.22 cd/A and 6.58%, respectively. The device emitted warm white light corresponding to Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIExy) coordinates of (0.372, 0.424) at 11 V, (0.375,0.417) at 12 V, (0.372,0.409) at 13 V, (0.366, 0.401) at 14 V, and (0.360, 0.393) at 15 V, respectively.

New dyes based on anthraquinone derivatives for color filter colorants

Two new compounds which substituted quinoline group in 1,4-position and 1,8-position of anthraquinone were synthesized for color filter. The change in physical properties according to the substituted position of the synthesized compound was systematically identified from the perspectives of optical property and thermal property. The extinction coefficient (ε) of the synthesized substance has a very high value more than 4.26 in log scale. Td value is more than 300 °C, which shows high thermal stability. This showed quite excellent results in optical property and thermal stability.

Undoped blue organic light-emitting diodes using 2-diphenylaminofluoren-7-ylstyryl derivatives

Blue fluorescent materials based on diphenylaminofluorenylstyryl derivatives connected with the various end-capping aromatic groups were synthesized and characterized. An OLED, using (E)-9,9-diethyl-7-(4-(4-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)styryl)-N,N-diphenyl-9 H-fluoren-2-amine(5) in emitting layer, was fabricated. This device showed the highly efficient blue emission with the maximum luminance of 5138 cd/m2, the luminous efficiency of 3.92 cd/A, the power efficiency of 3.17 lm/W, the external quantum efficiency of 2.90% at 20 mA/cm2 and CIE x, y coordinates of (0.14, 0.17).

Formation of a Transfer Product from Stevioside by the Cultures of Actinomycete

An Actinomycete, strain K-128, which was isolated from soil, formed a transfer product when the strain was cultured in a medium containing both stevioside and curdlan. The transfer product in culture broth was separated by DIAION HP-20 column and TOYOPEARL HW-40F column chromatographies. From structural studies, the transfer product was identified as C13-O-beta-6(2)-beta-glucosylsophorosyl-C19-O-beta-glucopyranosyl steviol. This product was the first to be obtained by a culture of an Actinomycete.

Galactosylation at Side Chains of Branched Cyclodextrins by Various β-Galactosidases

The galactosyl transfer reaction to branched cyclodextrins (CDs) was investigated using lactose as a donor substrate and branched CDs as acceptors by various beta-galactosidases. Bacillus circulans beta-galactosidase synthesized galactosyl transfer products to branched CDs, of which the galactose residues were linked at side chains of branched CDs, not directly at CD rings. Aspergillus oryzae and Penicillium multicolor beta-galactosidases also produced derivatives galactosylated at side chains of branched CDs. The structures of main transgalactosylation products of branched CDs by these beta-galactosidases seem to be different from those by B. circulans beta-galactosidase, judging from the retention times on high performance liquid chromatography.

A New Triterpene Saponin from Chenopodium ficifolium

The new triterpene saponin 3-O-β-ᴅ-glucopyranoside, 28-β-ᴅ-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-d-glucopyranosiduronic acid oleanolate was isolated from the roots of Chenopodium ficifolium. The known compounds stigmasterol-3-O-glucoside and 3-O-β-ᴅ-glucopyranosiduronic acid, 28-β-ᴅ-glucopyranosyl oleanolate were also isolated. The latter compound, oleanolic acid, β-sitosterol and its glucoside were isolated from the aerial parts. The identity of these compounds was verified through different chemical and physico-chemical evidences including different 1D and 2D NMR experiments.

A New Sweet Dihydrochalcone-Glucoside from Leaves of Lithocarpus pachyphyllus (Kurz) Rehd. (Fagaceae)

A new sweet dihydrochalcone-glucoside, trilobatin 2″- acetate (1), was isolated from the leaves of Lithocarpus pachyphyllus, together with phlorizin and trilobatin. The structures were established by spectroscopic methods, including one- and two-dimensional NMR (COSY, HMQC and HMBC).

Phaeoside, a Novel Galactoside of Hydroxymanoyl Oxide from the Gibberellin A1-ProducingPhaeosphaeriasp. L487

Isolation and examination of a diterpene glycoside from the culture filtrate of the gibberellin A(1)-producing Phaeosphaeria sp. L487 allowed us to identify a novel fungal galactoside of hydroxymanoyl oxide together with (-)-ent-13-epi-manoyl oxide. It was designated phaeoside and determined to be 1alpha-hydroxy-ent-13-epi-manoyl oxide 1-O-beta-D-galactopyranoside based on its chemical degradation and spectroscopic methods. This is the first report of the isolation of a diterpene galactoside from fungi.

Synthesis of Novel Heterobranched β-Cyclodextrins Having β-D-N-Acetylglucosaminyl-Maltotriose on the Side Chain

From a mixture of N-acetylglucosaminyl-beta-cyclodextrin (GlcNAc-betaCD) and lactose, beta-D-galactosyl-GlcNAc-betaCD (Gal-GlcNAc-betaCD) was synthesized by the transfer action of beta-galactosidase. GlcNAc-maltotriose (Glc3) and Gal-GlcNAc-Glc3 were produced with hydrolysis of GlcNAc-betaCD by cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase, and Gal-GlcNAc-betaCD by bacterial saccharifying alpha-amylase respectively. Finally, GlcNAc-Glc3-betaCD and Gal-GlcNAc-Glc3-betaCD were synthesized in 5.2% and 3.5% yield when Klebsiella pneumoniae pullulanase was incubated with the mixture of GlcNAc-Glc(3) and betaCD, or Gal-GlcNAc-Glc3 and betaCD respectively. The structures of GlcNAc-Glc3-betaCD and Gal-GlcNAc-Glc3-betaCD were analyzed by FAB-MS and NMR spectroscopy and identified as 6-O-alpha-(6(3)-O-beta-D-N-acetylglucosaminyl-maltotriosyl)-betaCD, and 6-O-alpha-(4-O-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-6(3)-O-beta-D-N-acetylglucosaminyl-maltotriosyl)-betaCD respectively.

Three Antinematodal Diterpenes fromEuphorbia kansui

Three compounds, 20-O-acetyl-[3-O-(2'E,4'Z)-decadienoyl]-ingenol (1), 20-O-acetyl-[5-O-(2'E,4'Z)-decadienoyl]-ingenol (2) and 3-O-(2'E,4'Z)-decadienoylingenol (3), were isolated from Euphorbia kansui under the bioassay-guided method. Each compound showed the same antinematodal activity against the nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, at a minimum effective dose (MED) of 5 microg/cotton ball.

Absolute Configuration of a Polyol Fragment of Blasticidin A, a Specific Inhibitor of Aflatoxin Production

Blasticidin A (1) and aflastatin A (2), Streptomyces metabolites with similar structures, are specific inhibitors of aflatoxin production by Aspergillus parasiticus. The stereochemistry of the polyol fragment of 1 (3a) containing ten chiral centers was elucidated by applying acetonide and MTPA methods to a variety of acetonide derivatives of 3a, which determined the absolute configuration of 3a. By using the similar methods, the absolute configuration of the polyol fragment of 2 (4a) was determined, which was the same as that elucidated by J-based and other chemical methods previously.

New 2(3→20)Abeotaxane and 3,11-Cyclotaxane from Needles ofTaxus cuspidata

Two new taxoid metabolites, 2alpha,7beta,10beta-triacetoxy-5alpha,13alpha-dihydroxy-2(3-->20)abeotaxa-4(20),11-dien-9-one (1) and 2alpha-acetoxy-5alpha-cinnamoyloxy-9alpha,10beta-dihydroxy-3,11-cyclotax-4(20)-en-13-one (2), were isolated from the methanol extract of needles of the Japanese yew, Taxus cuspidata.

Novel DPPH Radical Scavengers, Demethylbisorbibutenolide and Trichopyrone, from a Fungus

In our screening program for antioxidants with 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-radical scavenging activity, two novel compounds, demethylbisorbibutenolide (1) and trichopyrone (2), were isolated from the fermentation broth of the fungus of USF-4860 strain isolated from a soil sample. The structures of these compounds were determined from spectroscopic evidence. The biosynthetic origin of the carbon atoms of 2 was unambiguously determined by feeding experiments using (13)C-labeled precursors and elucidation of the (13)C-NMR spectrum of (13)C-labeled 2. These studies showed that 2 was derived from five acetates and a methyl group of methionine. In the DPPH-radical scavenging assay, 1 and 2 gave ED(50) values of 149 and 167 muM after standing for 2.0 hr. Compound 2 reacted with the DPPH radical to form reaction product 3 which was determined to be 1-[4-(3,4-dihydro-3-methyl-6-{1,3-pentadienyl}-2,4-dioxo-2H-pyran-3-yl)-phenyl]-1-phenyl-2-picrylhydrazine from spectroscopic evidence.

Constituents of Caryopteris incana and their antibacterial activity

Two new compounds named caryocanolide (1), and caryocanoside A (2), together with nine known compounds (3-11) were isolated from the whole plant of Caryopteris incana. These structures were determined mainly on the basis of 2D nuclear magnetic resonance and high resolution fast atom bombardment mass spectroscopy data. Furthermore, the isolated compounds (1, 2, 4-11) were tested for their antibacterial activity. Compound 1 exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis with a minimum inhibitory concentration value of 35.7 μM.

[Microbiological synthesis of [2H]-inosine with a high degree of isotopic enrichment by the gram-positive chemoheterotrophic bacterium Bacillus subtilis]

A 2H-labeled purine ribonucleoside inosine was microbiologically synthesized (yield, 3.9 g/L of culture liquid) using a deuterium-adapted strain ofthe gram-positive chemoheterotrophic bacterium Bacillus subtilis, cultivated in a heavy water medium with a high degree of deuteration (99.8 at % 2H) containing 2% hydrolysate of deuterated biomass of the methylotrophic bacterium Brevibacterium methylicum as a source of 2H-labeled growth substrate produced in an M9 minimal medium with 98% 2H20 and 2% [2H]-methanol. The inosine extracted from the culture liquid of the producer strain was fractionated by adsorption (desorption) on an activated carbon surface, extraction with 0.3 M ammonium-formate buffer (pH 8.9), subsequent crystallization in 80% ethanol, and ion exchange chromatography on a column with AG50WX 4 cation exchange resin equilibrated with 0.3 M ammonium-formate buffer containing 0.045 M NH4Cl. Fast atom bombardment (FAB) mass spectrometry demonstrated incorporation of five deuterium atoms in the inosine molecule (62.5% 2H), three of which were contained in the ribose moiety and two in the hypoxanthine moiety.

New secoiridoid glycosides from the buds of Lonicera macranthoides

Two new secoiridoid glycosides, named ethyl secologanoside (1) and 6'-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl demethylsecologanol (2), together with three known ones, secologanoside (3), secoxyloganin (4), and loniceroside (5), were isolated from the dried buds of Lonicera macranthoides. The structures of the new compounds were determined on the basis of detailed spectroscopic analyses and acidic hydrolysis.

Two new biisoflavonoids from the roots of Daphne oleoides

Phytochemical investigation of the ethyl acetate soluble fraction of the methanol soluble extract of the roots of Daphne oleoides resulted in isolation and identification of two new isomeric biisoflavonoids characterized as 8,8"-bi-6-hydroxyorobol (1) and 8,8"-bi-6, 2'-dihydroxygenistein (2). The structures of these compounds were established by analysis of their 1D and 2D NMR and HRMS data.

Trichilone, a new C21 steroid from Trichilia connaroides

Phytochemical investigation of the leaves of Trichilia connaroides led to the isolation of a new pregnane, trichilone (1), featuring a 2-methoxycyclopent-2-enone moiety, along with a related known compound, 3beta,4alpha-dihydroxypregnane-16-one (2). The structure of 1 was established on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis. Compound 1 showed significant root-growth inhibition activity against Amaranthus. mangostanus with an IC50 value of 23.1 ppm.

Malaria-infected mice live until at least day 30 after a new artemisinin-derived thioacetal thiocarbonate combined with mefloquine are administered together in a single, low, oral dose

In only three steps and in 21-67% overall yields from the natural trioxane artemisinin, a series of 21 new trioxane C-10 thioacetals was prepared. Upon receiving a single oral dose of only 6 mg/kg of the monomeric trioxane 12c combined with 18 mg/kg of mefloquine hydrochloride, Plasmodium berghei-infected mice survived on average 29.8 days after infection. Two of the four mice in this group had no parasites detectable in their blood on day 30 after infection, and they behaved normally and appeared healthy. One of the mice had 11% blood parasitemia on day 30, and one mouse in this group died on day 29. Of high medicinal importance, the efficacy of this ACT chemotherapy is much better than (almost double) the efficacy under the same conditions using as a positive control the popular trioxane drug artemether plus mefloquine hydrochloride (average survival time of only 16.5 days).

Identification of novel fluorochemicals in aqueous film-forming foams used by the US military

Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) are a vital tool to fight large hydrocarbon fires and can be used by public, commercial, and military firefighting organizations. In order to possess these superior firefighting capabilities, AFFFs contain fluorochemical surfactants, of which many of the chemical identities are listed as proprietary. Large-scale controlled (e.g., training activities) and uncontrolled releases of AFFF have resulted in contamination of groundwater. Information on the composition of AFFF formulations is needed to fully define the extent of groundwater contamination, and the first step is to fully define the fluorochemical composition of AFFFs used by the US military. Fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FAB-MS) and high resolution quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS) were combined to elucidate chemical formulas for the fluorochemicals in AFFF mixtures, and, along with patent-based information, structures were assigned. Sample collection and analysis was focused on AFFFs that have been designated as certified for US military use. Ten different fluorochemical classes were identified in the seven military-certified AFFF formulations and include anionic, cationic, and zwitterionic surfactants with perfluoroalkyl chain lengths ranging from 4 to 12. The environmental implications are discussed, and research needs are identified.

Isolation and structural determination of the first 8-epi-type tetrodotoxin analogs from the newt, Cynops ensicauda popei, and comparison of tetrodotoxin analogs profiles of this newt and the puffer fish, Fugu poecilonotus

Identification of new tetrodotoxin (TTX) analogs from TTX-possessing animals might provide insight into its biosynthesis and metabolism. In this study, four new analogs, 8-epi-5,6,11-trideoxyTTX, 4,9-anhydro-8-epi-5,6,11-trideoxyTTX, 1-hydroxy-8-epi-5,6,11-trideoxyTTX, and 1-hydroxy-4,4a-anhydro-8-epi-5,6,11-trideoxyTTX, were isolated from the newt, Cynops ensicauda popei, and their structures were determined using spectroscopic methods. These are the first 8-epi-type analogs of TTX that have been found in a natural source. Furthermore, we examined the composition of the TTX analogs in this newt and in the ovary of the puffer fish, Fugu poecilonotus, using LC/MS. The results indicate that TTX and 11-deoxyTTX were present in both sources. However, 6-epiTTX and 8-epi-type analogs were detected only in the newt, while 5,6,11-trideoxyTTX was a specific and major analog in the puffer fish. Such considerable differences among analog compositions might reflect differences in the biosynthesis or metabolism of TTX between these animals.

β-Nitro derivatives of iron corrolates

Two different methods for the regioselective nitration of different meso-triarylcorroles leading to the corresponding β-substituted nitrocorrole iron complexes have been developed. A two-step procedure affords three Fe(III) nitrosyl products-the unsubstituted corrole, the 3-nitrocorrole, and the 3,17-dinitrocorrole. In contrast, a one-pot synthetic approach drives the reaction almost exclusively to formation of the iron nitrosyl 3,17-dinitrocorrole. Electron-releasing substituents on the meso-aryl groups of the triarylcorroles induce higher yields and longer reaction times than what is observed for the synthesis of similar triarylcorroles with electron-withdrawing functionalities, and these results can be confidently attributed to the facile formation and stabilization of an intermediate iron corrole π-cation radical. Electron-withdrawing substituents on the meso-aryl groups of triarylcorrole also seem to labilize the axial nitrosyl group which, in the case of the pentafluorophenylcorrole derivative, results in the direct formation of a disubstituted iron μ-oxo dimer complex. The influence of meso-aryl substituents on the progress and products of the nitration reaction was investigated. In addition, to elucidate the most important factors which influence the redox reactivity of these different iron nitrosyl complexes, selected compounds were examined by cyclic voltammetry and thin-layer UV-visible or FTIR spectroelectrochemistry in CH(2)Cl(2).

Chemical constituents and biological activities of Senecio aegyptius var. discoideus Boiss

A new eremophilane sesquiterpene, 1-beta-hydroxy-8-oxoeremophila-7,9-dien-12-oic acid (1), in addition to two known flavonol glycosides, rutin (2) and quercetin-3-O-glucoside-7-O-rutinoside (3), was isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction obtained from the aqueous alcoholic extract of the aerial parts of Senecio aegyptius var. discoideus Boiss. (family Asteraceae). The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were established by 1D and 2D NMR analysis (1H, 13C, COSY, HMQC, HMBC), MS and UV data, and through comparison with the literature. The ethyl acetate fraction and the isolated rutin showed significant cytotoxic activity against colorectal carcinoma (HCT 116) and to less extent against brain (U 251) and breast carcinoma (MCF 7). The ethyl acetate fraction showed a significant level of activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae, while the total extract showed the best antifungal activity against Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. DPPH radical scavenging activity of the ethyl acetate fraction was significant (96.7%) when compared to ascorbic acid. It also showed anti-inflammatory activity but no diuretic effect.

A new class of heterocycles: 1,4,3,5-oxathiadiazepane 4,4-dioxides

This work reports the synthesis of novel 1,4,3,5-oxathiadiazepanes 4,4-dioxides from the reaction of N'-benzyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-sarcosine or proline sulfamide with aromatic aldehydes under acid catalysis. To prepare the starting materials N-Boc-sulfamide derivatives of sarcosine or proline were alkylated with benzyl alcohol under Mitsunobu reaction conditions, the Boc group was removed chemoselectively by acidolysis, and the resulting product reduced to the corresponding alcohol in good yields.

Imbricatolic acid from Juniperus communis L. prevents cell cycle progression in CaLu-6 cells

Imbricatolic acid was isolated from the methanolic extract of the fresh ripe berries of Juniperus communis (Cupressaceae) together with sixteen known compounds and a new dihydrobenzofuran lignan glycoside named juniperoside A. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods and by comparison with the spectral data reported in literature. Imbricatolic acid was evaluated for its ability to prevent cell cycle progression in p53-null CaLu-6 cells. This compound induces the upregulation of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors and their accumulation in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, as well as the degradation of cyclins A, D1, and E1. Furthermore, no significant imbricatolic acid-induced apoptosis was observed. Therefore, this plant-derived compound may play a role in the control of cell cycle.

Evaluation of limiting brain penetration related to P-glycoprotein and breast cancer resistance protein using [(11)C]GF120918 by PET in mice

PURPOSE

GF120918 has a high inhibitory effect on P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). We developed [(11)C]GF120918 as a positron emission tomography (PET) probe to assess if dual modulation of P-gp and BCRP is useful to evaluate brain penetration.

PROCEDURES

PET studies using [(11)C]GF120918 were conducted on P-gp and/or Bcrp knockout mice as well as wild-type mice.

RESULTS

In PET studies, the AUC(brain) ([0-60 min]) and K (1) value in P-gp/Bcrp knockout mice were nine- and 26-fold higher than that in wild-type mice, respectively. These results suggest that brain penetration of [(11)C]GF120918 is related to modulation of P-gp and BCRP and is limited by two transporters working together.

CONCLUSIONS

PET using [(11)C]GF120918 may be useful for evaluating the function of P-gp and BCRP. PET using P-gp/Bcrp knockout mice may be an effective method to understand the overall contributions the functions of P-gp and BCRP.

Thiophene, furans, and related aromatic compounds from Eupatorium heterophyllum

A thiophene, two furans, a dihydro furan, and two acetylenic benzene derivatives were isolated from the roots of Eupatorium heterophyllum collected in China. Structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic analyses as well as chemical transformations.

Synthesis and anti-microbial evaluation of some novel 1,2,4-triazole derivatives

Triazoles with different substituent groups are found to possess diverse applications in the field of medicine and industry. A series of 4-(substituted ethanoyl)amino-3-mercapto-5-(4-nitro)phenyl-1,2,4-triazoles (NU-1 to NU-15) were synthesized as novel antimicrobial agents starting from 4-nitrobenzoic acid. The chemical structures of these newly synthesized compounds were elucidated by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FAB+ -MS spectral data and elemental analysis. Their antimicrobial activities against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC-25923), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC-27853), Escherichia coli (ATCC-8739), Bacillus substilis (ATCC-6633), Candida albicans (MTCC-227), Aspergillus niger (MTCC-3323) and Fusarium oxysporum (MTCC-2087) were investigated.

Chemical constituents of Melicope ptelefolia

Phytochemical investigations on the methanolic extract of Melicope ptelefolia Champ ex Benth. resulted in the isolation of three new compounds, identified as 3beta-stigmast-5-en-3-ol butyl tridecanedioate (melicoester) (1), (2Z, 6Z, 10Z, 14Z, 18Z, 22Z, 26E)-3', 7', 11', 15', 19', 23', 27', 31'-octamethyldotriaconta-2, 6, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, 30-octadecanoate (melicopeprenoate) (2) and p-O-geranyl-7"-acetoxy coumaric acid (3). The compounds were isolated along with twenty-one other known compounds, lupeol (4), oleanolic acid (5), kokusaginine (6) genistein (7), p-O-geranyl coumaric acid (8), 4-stigmasten-3-one (9), 3beta-hydroxystigma-5-en-7-one (10) cis-phytyl palmitate (11), dodecane, dodecan-1-ol, ceryl alcohol, hentriacontanoic acid, eicosane, n-amyl alcohol, caprylic alcohol, octatriacontane, nonatriacontane, hexatriencontan-1-ol, methyl octacosanoate, beta-sitosterol, beta-sitosterol glucoside. Structures of all the compounds were established on the basis of MS and 1D and 2D NMR spectral data, as well as comparison with reported data.

Analysis of organic compounds in an urban wastewater treatment plant effluent

In the present work we fractioned the effluent water from an urban sewage treatment plant (USTP) of Ribarroja (Valencia, Spain) using the conventional protocol based on DAX8 and XAD4 resins. The fractions were analyzed by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1H-NMR, COSY-NMR, HSQC-NMR, FAB+-MS and also by derivatization with bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide with 10% of trimethylchlorosilane. The four fractions obtained have common spectroscopic features and individual compounds indicating that the fractioning procedure is inefficient at separating different families of compounds. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the derivatized fractions allowed identification of many individual compounds. The main classes of organic compounds present in the effluent are saccharides, amino acids, fatty acids, hydroxyacids, aromatic compounds and steroids. Also we were able to identify in the effluent the emerging pollutants paracetamol and ketoprofen - two best-selling antiinflammatory drugs used in humans.

Glaucasides A-C, three saikosaponins from Atriplex glauca L. var. ifiniensis (Caball) Maire

From the roots of Atriplex glauca L. var. ifiniensis (Caball) Maire (syn. of Atriplex parvifolia Lowe var. genuina Maire), three new saikosaponins designated as glaucasides A-C (1-3) were isolated together with the known 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-galactopyranosyl-saikogenin F (4). The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by extensive analysis of one-dimensional and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy, FABMS, HR-ESIMS and chemical evidence as 13β,28-epoxy-16β,21β-dihydroxyolean-11-en-3β-yl O-β-D-[2-O-sulfate]-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-α-L-arabinopyranoside (1), 13β,28-epoxy-16β,21β-dihydroxyolean-11-en-3β-yl O-β-D-[2-O-sulfate]-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-α-L-arabinopyranosyl 21-O-{4-(secbutylamido)-butanoyl ester} (2) and 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-D-galactopyranosyl saikogenin G (3). The cytotoxic activities of these compounds were evaluated against the HT-29 and HCT 116 human colon cancer cell lines.

Synthesis, characterization and bioactive evaluation of copper(II) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis[alpha,alpha,alpha,alpha-2-(2,6-bis(4-methylpiperazine-1-yl-methyl)-4-iminomethyl phenol)phenyl] porphyrin: a picket-fence porphyrin

We are interested in constructing deeper small cavities by adding more bulky substituents at the ortho-phenyl positions of tetrakis(o-aminophenyl)porphyrin. The synthesis of picket-fence porphyrin is initiated by the preparation of the tetrakis(o-nitrophenyl)porphyrin followed by the nitro to amino reduction and subsequent condensation with Schiff base ligand to form imine linkages of porphyrin complexes. The synthesis and characterization of a new series of picket-fence porphyrins and their copper complexes are described. 5,10,15,20-Tetrakis[alpha,alpha,alpha,alpha-2-(2,6-bis(4-methyl piperazine-1-yl-methyl)-4-iminomethyl phenol)phenyl] porphyrin can be synthesized from 2,6-bis[4-methylpiperazin-1-yl-methyl]-4-formylphenol (L) and 5,10,15,20-tetra[alpha,alpha,alpha,alpha-o-nitropheny1]-porphyrin. 5,10,15,20-Tetra[alpha,alpha,alpha,alpha-o-aminopheny1]-porphyrin was obtained by the reduction of 5,10,15,20-tetra[alpha,alpha,alpha,alpha-o-nitropheny1]-porphyrin. The spectral, electrochemical, antibacterial, antifungal and cytotoxicity properties of all the picket-fence porphyrin complexes were characterized and studied.

Carotenoids in clams, Ruditapes philippinarum and Meretrix petechialis

Carotenoids were investigated in two species of clams, Rudiapes philippinarum and Meretrix petechialis. Fucoxanthin 3-esters and fucoxanthinol 3-esters were found to be major components, along with crassostreaxanthin A 3-acetate, crassostreaxanthin A, crassostreaxanthin B 3-acetate, crassostreaxanthin B, halocynthiaxanthin 3'-acetate, halocynthiaxanthin, alloxanthin, diatoxanthin, diadinoxanthin, and heteroxanthin. Fatty acids esterified with fucoxanthin and fucoxanthinol were identified as C24:6, C22:5, C22:6, C20:5, C20:0, C20:1, C18:0, C18:1, C16:0, C16:1, and C14:0 from fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry (FAB-MS) data. Crassostreaxanthin A 3-acetate and crassostreaxanthin B 3-acetate were first isolated and completely characterized by spectroscopic data. Furthermore, possible metabolic pathways of fucoxanthin in clams were proposed.

Cytotoxic dihydrobenzophenanthridine alkaloids from the roots of Macleaya microcarpa

Five dihydrobenzophenanthridine alkaloids, named as maclekarpine A-E, were isolated from the roots of Macleaya microcarpa, together with 10 known benzophenanthridine/dihydrobenzophenanthridine derivatives and a known amide. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectroscopic methods. The relative configuration of maclekarpine A was solved by X-ray single-crystal diffraction, which also contributed to the establishment of the relative configuration of maclekarpine B and C, as well as the assignment of the absolute configuration of maclekarpine A-C with aid of their CD curves. Cytotoxicity of the isolated compounds against five human tumor cell-lines was evaluated, with some having activity with IC(50) values ranging from 0.1 to 3.5 microM.

Lignans from the tuber-barks of Colocasia antiquorum var. esculenta and their antimelanogenic Activity

Colocasia antiquorum var. esculenta , a variant of C. antiquorum , commonly known as "Imperial Taro", is an edible vegetable in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world. This study with the aim of evaluating the potential of C. antiquorum var. esculenta as a functional food with a depigmenting effect resulted in the identification of a new sesquilignan, named colocasinol A (1), and a new acyclic phenylpropane lignanamide, named cis-grossamide K (2), together with 10 known compounds (3-12). The identification and structural elucidation of these compounds were based on 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic data analysis as well as high-resolution fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FABMS) and electron impact mass spectrometry (EIMS). Quantitation of the melanin contents and cell viability in murine melanocyte melan-a cells was used to assess the antimelanogenic activities of the isolated compounds. Among them, cis-grossamide K (2), isoamericanol A (3), americanol A (4), 2-hydroxy-3,2'-dimethoxy-4'-(2,3-epoxy-1-hydroxypropyl)-5-(3-hydroxy-1-propenyl)biphenyl (5), and (-)-pinoresinol (6) showed inhibitory effects on melanin production. Compounds 2, 5, and 6 exerted a particularly strong antimelanogenic activity on the cells without high cell toxicity (IC(50) = 54.24, 53.49, and 56.26 microM, and LD(50) = 163.60, 110.23, and >500 microM, respectively).

The tropical brown alga Lobophora variegata: a source of antiprotozoal compounds

Lobophora variegata, a brown alga collected from the coast of the Yucatan peninsula, Mexico, was studied for antiprotozoal activity against Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica and Trichomonas vaginalis. The whole extract showed the highest activity against T. vaginalis, with an IC(50) value of 3.2 microg/mL. For the fractions, the best antiprotozoal activity was found in non-polar fractions. The chloroform fraction of the extract contained a major sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol (SQDG), identified as 1-O-palmitoyl-2-O-myristoyl-3-O-(6'''-sulfo-alpha-D-quinovopyranosyl)-glycerol (1), together with small amounts of 1,2-di-O-palmitoyl-3-O-(6'''-sulfo-alpha-D-quinovopyranosyl)-glycerol (2) and a new compound identified as 1-O-palmitoyl-2-O-oleoyl-3-O-(6'''-sulfo-alpha-D-quinovopyranosyl)-glycerol (3). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of chemical and enzymatic hydrolysis and careful analysis of FAB-MS and NMR spectroscopic data. This is the first report on the isolation of SQDGs from L. variegata. The mixture of 1-3 showed good activity against E. histolytica and moderate activity against T. vaginalis with IC(50s) of 3.9 and 8.0 microg/mL, respectively, however, the activity of 1-3 is not as effective as metronidazole. These results afford ground information for the potential use of the whole extract and fractions of this species in protozoal infections.

A pentacyclic triterpene from Litchi chinensis

The aerial parts of Litchi chinensis Gaertn. (Sapindaceae) yielded one new pentacyclic triterpene [lup-12, 20(29) diene-3, 27-diol], along with the known compounds betulinic acid, lupeol, betulin, beta-sitosterol, and stigmasterol. The structures of the compounds were established by spectroscopic methods.

Mild and efficient strontium chloride hexahydrate-catalyzed conversion of ketones and aldehydes into corresponding gem-dihydroperoxides by aqueous H2O2

SrCl₂·6H₂O has been shown to act as an efficient catalyst for the conversion of aldehydes or ketones into the corresponding gem-dihydroperoxides (DHPs) by treatment with aqueous H₂O₂ (30%) in acetonitrile. The reactions proceed under mild and neutral conditions at room temperature to afford good to excellent yields of product.

Two new carthamosides from Carthamus oxycantha

Two new glycosides, 2-O-methylglucopyranosyl-carthamoside (1) and beta-D-fructofuranosyl carthamoside (2), along with the known compound 3',4',5,7-tetrahydroxyflavanone (3) have been isolated from Carthamus oxyacantha, using recycling preparative HPLC. The structures of these compounds were established by mass spectrometric and extensive spectroscopic analysis.

Tricinonoic acid and tricindiol, two new irregular sesquiterpenes from an endophytic strain of Fusarium tricinctum

Two new rare irregular sesquiterpenes, tricinonoic acid (1) and tricindiol (2), and the known furanopyrrolidones, NG-391 (3) and NG-393 (4), have been isolated from an EtOAc extract of Fusarium tricinctum, a fungus endophytic in the root tissue of the Sonoran desert plant, Rumex hymenosepalus. The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated on the basis of their high-resolution mass, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data. A possible biosynthetic route to 1 and 2 from farnesyl diphosphate is proposed.

Cytotoxic and antibacterial triterpenoids derivatives from Clematis ganpiniana

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The roots and rhizomes of Clematis are commonly used as an analgesic, abirritative, antibacterial, antiphlogistic, anticancer and diuretic agent. The Naxi people traditionally used Clematis ganpiniana's (Lévl. Et Vant.) as a diuretic agent, an anti-inflammatory and anticancer remedy.

AIM OF STUDY

To investigate the cytotoxic and antibacterial components from Clematis ganpiniana.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The aboveground part of Clematis ganpiniana was isolated by chromatographic techniques. Structures of isolated compounds were identified by spectroscopic methods and comparison with published data. Their cytotoxic, apoptosis and antibacterial activities of purified components were also performed.

RESULTS

By bioassay-guided fractionation techniques and chemical characterization, four triterpene glycosides were isolated and their cytotoxicity against cancer cells and antibacterial activity were tested. They showed significant inhibitory activities against MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 with IC50 value of 0.7-16.5 microg/ml, and significant apoptosis for MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Moreover, compound 4 showed weak wide-spectrum antibacterial activity.

CONCLUSION

These results provide promising baseline information for the potential use of Clematis ganpiniana as well as some of the isolated compounds in the treatment of cancer and infectious disease.

A new 5-acyl-2-methylpyrrole from the endophytic fungus S20 of Cephalotaxus hainanensis

A new 5-acyl-2-methylpyrrole, isolated from the endophytic fungus S20 of Cephalotaxus hainanensis, was elucidated as 1-(5-methyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-2-((2S*,3R*)-3-((E)-prop-1-enyl)oxiran-2-yl)ethanone (1) on the basis of spectroscopic evidence, including 1D- and 2D-NMR (HMQC, 1H-1H COSY, HMBC and ROESY) and MS analysis. Compound 1 showed inhibitory effects on Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus by the filter paper disc agar diffusion method.

Selective and efficient tripodal receptors for competitive solvent extraction and bulk liquid membrane transport of Hg2+

A series of tripodal receptors that are different from each other in their end groups were synthesized. The extraction ability and the transport rate of these receptors were evaluated for transition metal ions (Fe(3+), Ni(2+), Cu(2+), Zn(2+) and Hg(2+)). The receptor bearing pyridyl nitrogens extracted Hg(2+) from a buffered aqueous medium containing a mixture of metal ions and transported it into an organic phase with a complete selectivity over the other metal ions. This receptor was effectively used for transporting Hg(2+) from aqueous buffered source phase to aqueous receiving phase through a chloroform membrane.

Chemical constituents of Nauclea latifolia and their anti-GST and anti-fungal activities

The crude ethanolic extract of Nauclea latifolia yielded five known compounds, strictosamide (1), naucleamides A (2), naucleamide F (3), quinovic acid-3-O-beta-rhamnosylpyranoside (4), and quinovic acid 3-O-beta-fucosylpyranoside (5). Microbial reactions, using a whole cell culture of Rhizopus circinans on compound (1), yielded three analogues, 10-hydroxystrictosamide (6), 10-beta-glucosyloxyvincoside lactam (7) and 16,17-dihydro-10-beta-glucosyloxyvincoside lactam (8). Compounds 1-8 were identified with the aid of extensive NMR spectral studies. Compound 8 was found to be a new metabolite. Compounds 1-8 exhibited different levels of anti-GST and anti-fungal activities.

Cytotoxic piperazine-2,5-dione derivatives from marine fungus Gliocladium sp

Two new piperazine-2,5-dione derivatives, gliocladride A (1) and B (2), along with deoxymycelianamide (3) were isolated from the mycelial mass of marine fungus Gliocladium sp. Their structures were established on the basis of spectral data, and the stereochemical assignments were made by chiral HPLC analysis of the hydrolyzed compounds and optical rotation comparison with known compound. Their cytotoxic activity was tested on three cancer cell lines, HL-60, U937 and T47D by MTT assay. As a result, gliocladride A (1) and B (2) showed moderate cytotoxic activity against the three cell lines with IC50 values from 11.60 microg/ml to 52.83 microg/ml, while deoxymycelianamide (3) showed strong cytotoxic activity against U937 cell line with IC50 values of 0.785 microg/ml.