Bioactive barrigenol type triterpenoids from the leaves of Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge

In order to find out new natural barrigenol type triterpenenoids as antitumor agent and reveal the difference on material basis of different parts of Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge, the bioassay-directed separation of the saponin fraction from leaves of X. sorbifolia Bunge was carried out to afford 5 new barrigenol type triterpenoids (1–5), together with 2 known ones. The antitumor activities were evaluated and compounds 2 and 7 showed significant cytotoxic activity. Furthermore, the SAR was discussed briefly. On the basis of our research work and related literature, the difference of chemical constituents from different parts of X. sorbifolia was analyzed and concluded. The result can be a useful reference for phytochemistry taxology and safe and rational drug use of X. sorbifolia.

Five new barrigenol type triterpenoids (1–5) were isolated from leaves of Xanthoceras sorbifolia. Compounds 2 and 7 showed significant antitumor activities. The material basis difference of X. sorbifolia were concluded.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Five new natural barrigenol type triterpenenoids from Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge.
► Significant cytotoxicities of 2 and 7 against three human tumor cell lines.
► The material basis difference of different parts of X. sorbifolia was concluded.