A new cytotoxic quinolone alkaloid and a pentacyclic steroidal glycoside from the stem bark of Crataeva nurvala: Study of anti-proliferative and apoptosis inducing property

Chemical investigation of stem bark of Crataeva nurvala afforded 5,7-dimethoxy-3-phenyl-1-ethyl-1,4-dihydro-4-quinolone and a steroidal glycoside with unprecedented pentacyclic ring system named crataemine (1a) and crataenoside (2) respectively. The structures of the compounds were determined by spectroscopic analysis. A series of compounds with modification at position 1 of 1a (1a–1c) were prepared. All compounds were screened for cytotoxic activity against HeLa, PC-3 and MCF-7 cells. Only 1a and 2 showed potency against all three cells. Mechanism based study for activity of the compounds demonstrated that it could block the migration of more aggressive HeLa and PC-3 cells and prevent their colony formation ability as well. The compounds potentiated apoptosis in HeLa and PC-3 cells in a significant manner.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A new quinolone alkaloid and pentacyclic steroidal glycoside from Crataeva nurvala. ► Demonstrated cytotoxic activity against HeLa, PC-3 and MCF-7 cell lines. ► Prevented colony formation ability of HeLa and PC-3 cells. ► Potentiated apoptosis in a significant manner