Psoralidin production starts with a based catalyzed condensation between phenyl acetate and acid chloride. To form the ring of psoralidin, an intramolecular cyclization occurs, finished off by a microwave assisted cross metathesis reaction.[1]
Pharmacology
Psoralidin inhibits forskolin-induced corticotrophin releasing factor gene transcription. Recently, it has shown activity in vitro against gastric, colon, prostate, and breast cancer lines. It has the capability to inhibit protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B, a key metabolite involved in insulin signaling.[1]
Structurally, psoralidin is a coumestanderivative; it has an isopentenyl group at the second carbon position of coumestrol. Psoralidin is insoluble in water, making in vivo studies difficult.[1]