Xanthone from Mangosteen inhibits oxidation of LDL
cholesterol


1: Free Radic Res. 2000 Nov;33(5):643-59. Related Articles, Links Inhibition of lipoprotein oxidation by prenylated xanthones derived from mangostin. Mahabusarakam W, Proudfoot J, Taylor W, Croft K. Chemistry Department, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Thailand.
PMID: 11200095 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]


mangosteen-02Oxidative damage is thought to play a critical role in cardiovascular and other chronic diseases. This has led to considerable interest in the antioxidant activity of dietary compounds. Flavonoids have received the most attention and much is known about the structural requirements for antioxidant activity.

However, little is known about the antioxidant activity of other plant derived phenolic compounds such as the xanthones. We have previously shown that the prenylated xanthone, mangostin, can inhibit the oxidation of low density lipoprotein.

In order to examine the effects of structure modification on antioxidant activity of this class of compound we have prepared a number of derivatives of mangostin and tested antioxidant activity in an isolated LDL and plasma assay.

The results of this study show that structural modification of mangostin can have a profound effect on antioxidant activity. Derivatisation of the C-3 and C-6 hydroxyl groups with either methyl, acetate, propane diol or nitrile substantially reduces antioxidant activity.

In contrast, derivatisation of C-3 and C-6 with aminoethyl derivatives enhanced antioxidant activity, which may be related to changes in solubility. Cyclisation of the prenyl chains had little influence on antioxidant activity.
Disclaimer
The Xanthones from the mangosteen have been shown in laboratory studies to be powerful Antioxidants, Anti-Inflammatories and to have other special properties. However, laboratory results do not guarantee that the same will happen in the human body. Mangosteen is a nutritious fruit not a drug, and no therapeutic claims are made for this product.