Trinorcucurbitane and cucurbitane triterpenoids from the roots of Momordica charantia

Cucurbitacins, kuguacins A-E (1-5), were isolated from the roots of Momordica charantia together with three known analogues. Compounds (3-5) possess an unprecedented 25,26,27-trinorcucurbitane backbone. Kuguacin C (3) showed moderate anti-HIV-1 activity with a selectivity index more than 23.68.