Cytotoxic components from the leaves of Schefflera taiwaniana

Abstract

The isolation and identification of eighteen components from the leaves of Schefflera taiwaniana are presented. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectral data as well as direct comparison with authentic samples. These compounds include two polyacetylenes, one carotenoid-like, three sesquiterpenes, one diterpene, four triterpenes, two tocopherols, and five alkyl 4-hydroxycinnamate mixtures. Among these, 4-hydroxy-trans-cinnamic acid docosyl ester and 4-hydroxy-cis-cinnamic acid tetracosyl ester are new compounds. Some of these components exhibit cytotoxic activity.