Masticadienolic acid
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Names | |
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Preferred IUPAC name
(Z,6S)-6-[(3S,5R,9R,10R,13S,14S,17S)-3-hydroxy-4,4,10,13,14-pentamethyl-2,3,5,6,9,11,12,15,16,17-decahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl]-2-methylhept-2-enoic acid | |
Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol)
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ChEMBL | |
ChemSpider | |
PubChem CID
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Properties | |
C30H48O3 | |
Molar mass | 456.71 g/mol |
Appearance | White to off-white solid |
Density | ~1.0 g/cm3 (estimated) |
Practically insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, DMSO | |
Hazards | |
Occupational safety and health (OHS/OSH): | |
Main hazards
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Not extensively studied; handle as potentially bioactive |
Flash point | Not applicable |
Not applicable | |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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Masticadienolic acid is a naturally occurring terpenoid compound found in the resin of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), particularly in the variety cultivated on the Greek island of Chios. Chemically, it is a tirucallane-type tetracyclic triterpenoid based on its structural characteristics and biosynthetic origin. It is structurally related strongly to masticadienonic acid, differing by the presence of a hydroxyl group, which may influence its biological activity.[1]
Occurrence
[edit]Masticadienolic acid is one of the major constituents of mastic gum, a natural resin exuded from the bark of Pistacia lentiscus. This resin has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties and is known to contain various triterpenoids, including masticadienolic acid.[2]
Structure and biological activity
[edit]This natural substance possesses a lanostane-type skeleton with a carboxylic acid group and a hydroxyl group, classifying it as a pentacyclic triterpenoid. It is biosynthesized in the plant via the mevalonate pathway, a common route for the formation of triterpenes and steroids.[3]
Research indicates that masticadienolic acid exhibits several biological activities, such as:
- Anti-inflammatory properties: It may modulate pro-inflammatory pathways, contributing to its traditional use in treating inflammatory conditions.[4]
- Antioxidant effects: The compound has been associated with antioxidant activity, which can protect cells from oxidative stress.[5]
- Potential anticancer activity: Preliminary studies suggest that masticadienolic acid may have cytotoxic effects on certain cancer cell lines, although further research is needed to confirm these findings.[6]
Applications
[edit]Due to its natural origin and bioactive potential, masticadienolic acid is of interest in:
- Nutraceutical development: As a component of mastic gum, it may contribute to the health benefits attributed to this traditional remedy.
- Pharmaceutical research: Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a candidate for drug development targeting related conditions.
- Cosmetic formulations: The compound's bioactivity may be beneficial in skincare products aimed at reducing inflammation and oxidative damage.
References
[edit]- ^ "Masticadienolic acid". PubChem. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
- ^ Tabanca, N. (2020). "Chemical Characterization and Biological Activity of the Mastic Gum Essential Oils of Pistacia lentiscus var. chia from Turkey". Molecules. 25 (9): 2136. doi:10.3390/molecules25092136. PMC 7248992. PMID 32370246.
- ^ "Masticadienolic acid". PubChem. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
- ^ Paraschos, S. (2007). "Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of the Essential Oils from the Resin of Pistacia lentiscus". Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 55 (18): 7686–7690. doi:10.1021/jf070509f (inactive 1 July 2025).
{{cite journal}}
: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of July 2025 (link) - ^ Paraschos, S. (2007). "Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of the Essential Oils from the Resin of Pistacia lentiscus". Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 55 (18): 7686–7690. doi:10.1021/jf070509f (inactive 1 July 2025).
{{cite journal}}
: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of July 2025 (link) - ^ Paraschos, S. (2007). "Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of the Essential Oils from the Resin of Pistacia lentiscus". Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 55 (18): 7686–7690. doi:10.1021/jf070509f (inactive 1 July 2025).
{{cite journal}}
: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of July 2025 (link)