Phenolics from extracts of Brahea armata with inhibitory effect against 5alpha-reductase type-II.

Fractions of the aqueous alcohol extracts of the rind and kernel of Brahea aramata fruits have been investigated for their activity against 5alpha-reductase type II, which is expressed predominantly in the prostate. This isozyme represents a major target for drugs against benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. Also, a structural analysis of the phytophenolics, present in both aqueous alcohol extracts as the major constituents, has led to the isolation of five phenolics, including the new natural product, 4',6'-dimethoxy beta,4,2'-trihydroxy chalcone from the rind extract and three phenolics, including the new natural product, 1-p-hydroxybenzoyl glycerol from the kernel extract. All structures were confirmed by ESI-MS and NMR analysis.