A novel dimeric diterpenoid alkaloid from the Tibetan medicinal plant Aconitum tanguticum (Maxim.) Stapf

Two dimeric diterpenoid alkaloids were isolated from the whole plant of Aconitum tanguticum (Maxim.) Stapf and their structures were elucidated by extensive analysis of 1D, 2D-NMR and HR-MS data. One is a new compound and named tanguticurine A (1), and the other is the known compound anthoroidine B (2); both were isolated from this plant for the first time. The antiviral activity of compounds 1 and 2 against HCV and EV71 were also evaluated. It was found that compound 1 had a good inhibitory effect on HCV and EV71 with EC₅₀ values of 15.5 and 9.7 μmol·L^-1, respectively, and showed low cytotoxicity. Therefore, compound 1 is a good antiviral lead compound and deserves further study.