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Gynocardin and tetraphyllin B from Carpotroche brasiliensis
K C Spencer1, D S Seigler, L H Fikenscher
1Department of Botany, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, USA.
Two cyanogenic glycosides, Gynocardin and Tetraphyllin B, were identified in Carpotroche brasiliensis seeds and pericarp. These compounds were found in nearly equal amounts, with structures confirmed using proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Area of Science:
- Phytochemistry
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
Background:
- Carpotroche brasiliensis (Flacourtiaceae) is a plant species with potential medicinal applications.
- Cyanogenic glycosides are plant secondary metabolites known for their defense mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and identify cyanogenic glycosides from Carpotroche brasiliensis.
- To determine the distribution and relative abundance of these compounds in different plant parts.
Main Methods:
- Extraction of compounds from seeds and pericarp of Carpotroche brasiliensis.
- Structure elucidation using proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H-NMR) spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- Gynocardin and Tetraphyllin B were successfully isolated from the seeds and pericarp.
- These two cyanogenic glycosides were present in an approximately equimolar ratio in both plant parts.
Conclusions:
- Carpotroche brasiliensis seeds and pericarp contain a mixture of Gynocardin and Tetraphyllin B.
- The presence of these cyanogenic glycosides in equimolar amounts suggests a specific biosynthetic or functional role.
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