7-Hydroxyphthalide: A New Natural Salicylaldehyde Analog from Oulenzia sp. (Astigmata: Winterschmitiidae)

Abstract

A new salicy lactone was detected from the unidentified Oulenzia sp. and its chemical structure was elucidated as 7-hydroxyphthalide (7-hydroxy-3 H-isobenzofuran-1-one), based on its GC/MS and GC/FT-IR data and SiO₂ column behavior. The compound was synthesized by NaBH₄ reduction of 3-hydroxyphthalic anhydride. The GC/MS and GC/FT-IR spectra of the natural compound were consistent with those of the synthetic product. Although the compound is known as a medical material, this is the first example of its presence in nature.