Cytotoxic and tumor inhibitory agent from Polygala macradenia Gray (Polygalaceae): 4'-demethyldeoxypodophyllotoxin.

The chloroform fraction of Polygala macradenia exhibited activity against the P-388 lymphocytic leukemia and human epidermoid carcinoma of the nasopharynx test systems. The constituent responsible for this activity was a lignan, 4'-demethyldeoxypodophyllotoxin (C21H20O7). The identity was proven by elemental analysis; PMR, IR, mass spectrometric, and melting-point determinations; and preparation of a derivative.