Catecholase-catalyzed synthesis of wedelolactone, a natural coumestan and its analogs

Org Biomol Chem. 2022 Dec 21;21(1):89-92. doi: 10.1039/d2ob02081e.

Abstract

Biocatalysis plays an important role in the synthesis of complex organic molecules. Wedelolactone, a natural coumestan, has been reported to have many bioactive properties. A novel and efficient enzyme obtained from sweet potato juice was used for condensation of 4-hydroxycoumarins with catechols to produce wedelolactone and its structurally diverse analogs in moderate to good yields under mild reaction conditions. Hence, this enzymatic approach creates an opportunity to access many coumestan-based compounds that are potential building blocks for the synthesis of pharmaceutically important molecules.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biocatalysis
  • Coumarins*
  • Secondary Metabolism

Substances

  • coumestan
  • wedelolactone
  • Coumarins