Betulin
Application Notes
Betulin is a lupane-type triterpene produced by many plant species and was one of the first isolated plant natural products, reported in 1788 by Lowitz via sublimation from birch bark. Betulin is present as crystalline deposits on the outer layers of the bark and is an important precursor of other biologically active metabolites and polymers. Betulin itself is also bioactive, showing anticancer activity against several human cancer cell lines and tumour models, but is limited by its hydrophobicity. The antiseptic activity of betulin has been known from as early as 1899, and was used to cover wounds and cuts for sterilisation.
References
- Tolstikov G.A. et al. (2005). Betulin and its derivatives. Chemistry and biological activity. Chem. Sustain. Dev., 13, 129.
- Krol S.K. et al. (2015). Comprehensive review on betulin as a potent anticancer agent. Biomed. Res. Int., 584189.