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Planta Med 1979; 37(9): 37-44
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1097292
Research Articles

© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Seasonal Sterol Variations in Ecballium elaterium

Peter J. Hylands, Moosa T. Oskoui
  • Pharmacognosy Research Laboratories, Department of Pharmacy, Chelsea College, University of London, London, England.
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Publication Date:
13 January 2009 (online)

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Abstract

The sterol composition of different parts– of Ecballium elaterium plants throughout a growing season varies considerably, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The sterols are probably biosynthesised in the roots and stored in the leaves. 24–Ethyl–5a–cholesta–7, 22,25–trien–3β–ol may be converted to hydrogenated derivatives. The detection of a Δ5 – sterol – stigmasterol – for the first time in Ecballium elaterium is also reported.

Key Word Index

Ecballium elaterium - Cucurbitaceae - Squirting cucumber - Δ5– and Δ7–sterols - Sterol glycosides - 24–ethyl–5α–cholesta–7,22,25–trien–3β–ol - Stigmasterol - Variation with maturity