Four phytotoxic bi- and tri-cyclic sesquiterpene lactones, named inuloxins A-D, were isolated together with the known α-costic acid, from the aerial parts of Inula viscosa (family Asteraceae), a widespread Mediterranean plant well known for its content of pharmacologically active metabolites. The structures of inuloxins A-D were established by spectroscopic and chemical methods and determined to be: (4E,7R-,8R-,10S -)-3-oxo-germacra-4,11(13)-dien-8β-12-olide (A), its 11,13-dihydro analogue (B), (5R-,7R-,8R -,10R-)-1,15-methylene-5β-hydroxy-eudesm-1(15),11(13) -dien-8β-12-olide (C), and (7R-,8R-)-1,4-dimethyl-4- hydroxy-secoeudesm-5(10),11(13)-dien-8β-12-olide (D). The S absolute stereochemistry at C-5 of 5-hydroxyhexan-2-yl side chain of inuloxin D was assigned by applying an advanced Mosher's method. The phytotoxic activity of inuloxins A-D, that of the diazo and monoacetyl derivatives (of inuloxin A and C, resply), as well as that of α-costic acid was evaluated against two parasitic plant species, i.e. crenate broomrape (Orobanche crenata) and field dodder (Cuscuta campestris). Inuloxins A, C and D were the most active on both parasites and caused up to 100% inhibition of the seed germination. Inuloxin B was less active on Cuscuta and completely inactive against Orobanche. The main metabolite α-costic acid had a suppressive effect on the dodder seed germination but had a stimulating action on the broomrape seed germination. These preliminary results allowed to suppose some structure-activity relationships. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
