Synthesis of Novel Derivatives of Esculentoside A and Its Aglycone Phytolaccagenin, and Evaluation of Their Haemolytic Activity and Inhibition of Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Nitric Oxide Production

A series of 46 compounds derived from esculentoside A and its aglycone were synthesized and characterized. The effect of these compounds on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NO production, haemolytic activity, and cell viability was evaluated. Structure-activity relationship was established by comparing the derivatives of esculentoside A with its aglycone derivatives. Both the aglycone and its derivatives showed higher inhibitory effects on LPS-induced NO production, and lower haemolytic activities than esculentoside A and its derivatives.