Synthesis and biological activity of novel tiliroside derivants

A series of new tiliroside derivatives were synthesized and characterized by analytical 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectrometry. All of the compounds were evaluated for anti-diabetic properties in vitro using HepG2 cells. Compounds 3c, 3d, and 3i–l caused significant enhancements in glucose consumption by insulin-resistant HepG2 cells compared with control cells and cells that were exposed to metformin (an anti-diabetic drug). Moreover, compound 3l significantly activated adenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase activity and reduced acetyl-CoA carboxylase activity. Thus, the tiliroside derivative 3l offers potential to be developed as a new approach for treating type II diabetes.

Graphical abstractA new class of anti-diabetic agents, tiliroside derivatives were synthesized, and significantly activated AMPK, reduced ACC and enhanced glucose consumption in insulin resistance HepG2 cells in comparison with metformin.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Novel anti-diabetic tiliroside derivatives were synthesized. ► Six tiliroside derivatives showed stronger anti-diabetic activity than metformin. ► Compound 3l significantly activated AMPK, reduced ACC activity in a dose-dependent fashion.