diosgenin

Diosgenin (Nitogenin) is a spirostan found in DIOSCOREA and other plants. It has favorable effects in the improvement of diabetes and regulation of lipid metabolism.

Diosgenin-3-O-rhamnosyl(1→2)[glucosyl(1→6)]glucoside (compound 9), a steroidal saponin, is isolated from the variety yunnanensis of Paris polyphylla, commonly known as Yunnan pine [1].

Diosgenin glucoside (Trillin) and other synthetic glycosides with similar activities may be of use in the management of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Significant inhibition of Diosgenin glucoside synthesis and stimulation of solasodine glucosylation was found only with PC molecular species containing fatty acids with a chain length of 12-18 carbon atoms.

Yamogenin is a diastereomer of diosgenin, which we have identified as the compound responsible for the anti-hyperlipidemic effect of fenugreek.