Synthesis and cytotoxicity of 2-cyano-28-hydroxy-lup-1-en-3-ones

New A-ring modified betulin and dihydrobetulin derivatives possessing the 2-cyano-1-en-3-one moiety were prepared and tested for cytotoxicity in seven cancer cell lines. The most active agent 9a synthesized in this account was further demonstrated to induce apoptosis and to activate caspases in malignant melanoma cells. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.