Acetylcholinesterase inhibition by territrem B derivatives

Five derivatives of territrem B [2], a potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor isolated from a rice culture of Aspergillus terreus, were prepared from 2 as well as from its major metabolite, 4 beta-hydroxymethyl-4 beta-demethylterritrem B [4]. The inhibitory activities of these derivatives against electric eel acetylcholinesterase (E.C. 3.1.1.7) were tested and it was concluded that the enone and the pyrone groups present in 2 may play an important biological role.