Steroidal Saponins from the Rhizomes of Ruscus Hypophyllum

Phytochemical screening of the rhizomes of Ruscus hypophyllum (Liliaceae) has resulted in the isolation of five spirostanol saponins (1-5) including a new saponin (4) and nine furostanol saponins (6–14) including three new saponins (9–11), together with a known cholestane glycoside (15) and a new cholestane glycoside (16). The structures of the new compounds were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis, including 2D NMR data, and chemical evidence. The spirostanol saponins 1, 2, and 5 showed moderate cytotoxic activity against HL-60 human promyelocytic leukemia cells.