Alkaloids of Cynoglossum latifolium R.Br. Latifoline and 7-Angelylretronecine

Abstract

The principal alkaloid of Cynoglossum latifolium R.Br. is latifoline, C₂₀H₂₇O₇N, an ester of 7-angelylretronecine with the γ-lactone of 3,4-dihydroxypentane-2,3-dicarboxylic acid. 7-Angelylretronecine, itself, occurs as a minor constituent. Both alkaloids are subject to substantial decomposition during drying of the plant and 7-angelylretronecine may be formed by enzymatic attack on latifoline.