Photochemical dimerization of wasalexins in UV-irradiated Thellungiellahalophila and invitro generates unique cruciferous phytoalexins

The production of biswasalexins A1 and A2 in sodium chloride and UV stressed salt cress plants, as well as their chemical syntheses and antifungal activity against four cruciferous pathogens is reported. Biswasalexins A1 and A2 are cruciferous phytoalexins whose formation inplanta appears to result from a photochemical reaction that might protect the plant from fungal pathogens and UV-radiation.