methyl orsellinate

Methyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate (methyl orsellinate) is a useful synthetic intermediate in the synthesis of Grifolic Acid (G786500); a selective partial GPR120 agonist. Grifolic Acid induces ERK and [Ca2+]i responses in cells expressing GPR120, but has no effects on those expressing GPR40.

Methyl orsellinate, an antifungal compound, is produced during submerged culture from Sparassis crispa. Methyl orsellinate have appeared to have higher antifungal activity than sparassol. Methyl orsellinate is a phytotoxic compound; it can cause significant inhibition of radicle growth of Amaranthus hypochondriacus and Echinochloa crus-galli, interact with bovine-brain calmodulin and inhibit the activation of the calmodulin-dependent enzyme cAMP phosphodiesterase. It could inhibit PTP1B activity with 50% inhibitory concentration values of 277 +/- 8.6 microM; the selective inhibition of PTP1B has been widely recognized as a potential drug target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity; methyl orsellinate may treat the type 2 diabetes and obesity.