Synthesis and Evaluation of Asiatic Acid Derivatives As Anti-fibrotic Agents: Structure/activity Studies

Fibrotic diseases are characterized by the over-accumulation of fibrous components in the extracellular matrix and the liver, which can lead to liver cirrhosis. Current treatment options cannot reverse or halt liver fibrosis, motivating a search for newer treatment options. Previously, we showed that asiaticoside, a bioactive triterpene glycoside from Centella asiatica, has anti-fibrotic properties. Here, the aglycone asiatic acid was chemically modified, and these derivatives were evaluated for their potential as anti-fibrotic agents. The data obtained from in vivo testing of these compounds in a rodent CCl4-induced liver injury model are discussed. The information obtained from these studies may be useful in the design of novel anti-fibrotic agents.