A novel caryophyllene type sesquiterpene lactone from Asparagus falcatus (Linn.); Structure elucidation and anti-angiogenic activity on HUVECs

In this study the novel caryophyllene type sesquiterpene lactone (aspfalcolide) has been isolated from the leaves of Asparagus falcatus (Linn.) and characterized by IR, 1D NMR, 2D NMR, EI–MS, HR–ESI–MS and X-ray single crystal diffraction analysis. The aspfalcolide crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group P212121 with a = 6.37360(10), b = 7.6890(2), c = 27.3281(6) Å, α = β = γ = 90° and Z = 4. One intermolecular O–H⋯O hydrogen bond enforces these natural molecules to form infinite chains through the crystal. Aspfalcolide was screened for its anti-angiogenic activity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the result showed the remarkable inhibitory effect of aspfalcolide on the proliferation (IC50 1.82 μM), migration and tube formation of HUVECs.

Graphical abstractHere is a report of novel caryophyllene type sesquiterpene lactone from Asparagus falcatus (Linn.) with its anti-angiogenic activity on HUVECs.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A novel caryophyllene type sesquiterpene lactone (aspfalcolide) has been isolated from A. falcatus (Linn.). ► The new structure has been confirmed by 1D, 2D NMR, EI–MS, HR–EI–MS and X-ray crystal diffraction. ► The compound has been found to have anti-angiogenic activity (IC50 1.82 μM) on HUVECs.