Total Synthesis of Kuwanons A and B and Discovery of Their Antibacterial Mechanism

J Nat Prod. 2023 Aug 25;86(8):2022-2030. doi: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00466. Epub 2023 Jul 27.

Abstract

Kuwanons A (1) and B (2) are two natural prenylated flavones isolated from the root bark of Morus alba L. In this study, the first total syntheses of kuwanons A (1) and B (2) were achieved from a common intermediate with overall yields of 6.6% and 11.6%, respectively. Kuwanon B (2) exhibited antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and concentration-dependent bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Preliminary mechanism of action studies suggested that this compound killed bacteria rapidly by disrupting bacterial membrane integrity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Flavones*
  • Flavonoids* / pharmacology
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Staphylococcus aureus

Substances

  • Flavonoids
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Flavones

Supplementary concepts

  • Morus alba