Seasonal Sterol Variations in Ecballium elaterium

Abstract

The sterol composition of different parts– of Ecballium elaterium plants throughout a growing season varies considerably, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The sterols are probably biosynthesised in the roots and stored in the leaves. 24–Ethyl–5a–cholesta–7, 22,25–trien–3β–ol may be converted to hydrogenated derivatives. The detection of a Δ⁵ – sterol – stigmasterol – for the first time in Ecballium elaterium is also reported.

Key Word Index

Ecballium elaterium - Cucurbitaceae - Squirting cucumber - Δ^5– and Δ^7–sterols - Sterol glycosides - 24–ethyl–5α–cholesta–7,22,25–trien–3β–ol - Stigmasterol - Variation with maturity