Bioactive barrigenol type triterpenoids from the leaves of Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge.

In order to find out new natural barrigenol type triterpenenoids as antitumor agent and reveal the difference on material basis of different parts of Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge, the bioassay-directed separation of the saponin fraction from leaves of X. sorbifolia Bunge was carried out to afford 5 new barrigenol type triterpenoids (1-5), together with 2 known ones. The antitumor activities were evaluated and compounds 2 and 7 showed significant cytotoxic activity. Furthermore, the SAR was discussed briefly. On the basis of our research work and related literature, the difference of chemical constituents from different parts of X. sorbifolia was analyzed and concluded. The result can be a useful reference for phytochemistry taxology and safe and rational drug use of X. sorbifolia.