Abstract
Fifteen previously undescribed sesquiterpenoids (pogocablenes A-O), three first discovered natural patchoulol-type ones, coupled with fourteen known ones, were isolated from the aerial parts of Pogostemon cablin. Among them, pogocablenes A and B, a pair of C2 epimers, possessed an unusual carbon skeleton with bicyclo[4.3.1]decane core. Pogocablene C, originated from eudesmane-type sesquiterpenoid, had an unprecedented bicyclo[5.4.0]undecane scaffold with a peroxy hemiactetal moiety. Pogocablene D possessed a rare tricyclo[5.2.2.01,5]undecane carbon skeleton derived from guaiane-type sesquiterpenoid. Pogocablene E was a 4,5-seco-guaiane derivative owning a peroxy hemiactetal unit and a spirocyclic skeleton. Pogocablene M was a nor-patchoulol-type sesquiterpenoid with α,β-unsaturated ketone moiety. Their structures with absolute configuration were determined by extensive spectroscopic analysis, in combination with quantum chemical calculation. In addition, the plausible biogenetic pathways of pogocablenes A-E were proposed. Furthermore, all isolates were evaluated for anti-influenza virus and anti-inflammatory effects.