Screening of Promising Chemotherapeutic Candidates from Plants against Human Adult T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (VII): Active Principles from Thuja occidentalis L.

During the screening of novel chemotherapeutic candidates from plants against adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, we identified that the extracts of Thuja occidentalis (Cupressaceae) showed potent anti-proliferative activity in MT-1 and MT-2 cells. Therefore, we attempted to isolate the active components from this plant. We isolated and identified 32 compounds (1–32; eight lignans, 18 terpenoids, and six flavonoids) from the extracts of the leaves and cones. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis. Several of the isolated compounds inhibited the growth of both cell lines. Lignans showed more potent activity than other classes of compounds. A comparison of the activities of compounds 1–8 revealed that the presence of a trans-lactone (linkage of C-6 to C-7) correlated with increased activity. Diterpenes showed moderate activity, and the presence of a ketone moiety at the C-7 position correlated with increased activity in compounds 12–21. In addition, biflavones showed moderate activity, and the presence of methoxy functions appeared to influence the activity of these compounds. Several lignans were lead compound of anti-cancer reagent (etoposide). In conclusion, not only lignans, but also diterpenes and/or biflavones, may be promising candidates for the treatment of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma.