Biologically active withanolides from Physalis peruviana.

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Physalis peruviana L. (Poha) has a history of traditional use in medicine, particularly for cancer treatment.
• Understanding the chemical constituents of Poha is crucial for validating its medicinal applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the chemical composition of Physalis peruviana.
• To evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of isolated compounds from Poha.

Main Methods:

• Extraction and isolation of compounds from fresh fruits and aerial parts of Poha.
• Structure elucidation using NMR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction.
• In vitro assays to assess anti-inflammatory activity, including NF-κB inhibition and nitric oxide production reduction.

Main Results:

• A novel withanolide, physaperuvin K (1), was isolated from the fruit, along with seven other withanolides (2-8) from aerial parts.
• Compounds 1, 2, and 3 demonstrated significant inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-α-induced NF-κB activity.
• Compounds 1-3 effectively reduced nitric oxide production in activated macrophages without cytotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• The study elucidates the chemical profile of Physalis peruviana, identifying bioactive withanolides.
• Physaperuvin K, isolated from the edible fruit, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activity.
• These findings support the traditional medicinal use of Poha and highlight its potential therapeutic value.