Actinidic Acid, a New Triterpene Phytoalexin from Unripe Kiwi Fruit

Abstract

Seven phytoalexins (1-7), including a new compound, were isolated from the peel of unripe kiwi fruit (Actinidia deliciosa cv. Golden King) that had been wounded and inoculated with Colletotrichum musae. The new phytoalexin (1) was identified as 2α,3β,23-trihydroxy-12,20(30)-ursadien-28-oic acid, and named actinidic acid. Phytoalexins 2-6 are known triterpenes but have not previously been described as phytoalexins. Phytoalexin 7 is the same triterpene as the phytoalexin of nectarine fruit.