Podophyllotoxin
- Pharmacognosy and phytochemistry II
- Feb 4
- 1 min read
Source and Occurrence
Podophyllotoxin is extracted from the roots and rhizomes of Podophyllum species (e.g., Podophyllum peltatum—Mayapple).
It is a lignan with antiviral and anticancer properties.
Isolation of Podophyllotoxin
Extraction
Ethanolic or Methanolic Extraction: Dried Podophyllum roots are powdered and extracted with ethanol or methanol to obtain the resinous extract.
Purification
Liquid-Liquid Extraction: Utilizing solvents like chloroform or ether to partition podophyllotoxin.
Recrystallization: Podophyllotoxin is recrystallized from methanol or ethanol to enhance purity.
Chromatography
Column Chromatography: Using silica gel with solvent systems (e.g., hexane-ethyl acetate) to purify podophyllotoxin.
Identification
Physical Properties
Appearance: White crystalline solid.
Melting Point: Approximately 215°C.
Solubility: Soluble in chloroform, ethanol, and other organic solvents; insoluble in water.
Spectroscopic Techniques
IR Spectroscopy: Identifies functional groups like hydroxyl and methoxy groups.
NMR Spectroscopy:
¹H NMR: Shows characteristic signals from aromatic protons and methylene groups.
¹³C NMR: Confirms the lignan structure.
Mass Spectrometry: Molecular ion peak at m/z 368 (free base).
Chromatographic Techniques
HPLC: For purity assessment and quantification.
TLC: Monitoring extraction and purification stages.
Analysis
Quantitative Analysis
HPLC with UV Detection: Standard method for podophyllotoxin quantification.
Spectrophotometric Methods: Utilizing specific absorbance peaks.
Quality Control
Ensuring high purity for therapeutic applications.
Verifying structural integrity through spectral data.
Applications and Significance
Podophyllotoxin is a precursor for the synthesis of anticancer drugs like etoposide and teniposide.
It exhibits antiviral properties, particularly against HPV (human papillomavirus), making it valuable in treating warts and certain cancers.
