Studies in detoxication. 71. The metabolism of hydroxycoumarins

Abstract

The fate of 3-, 4-, 5-, 6- and 8-hydroxycoumarins in the rabbit was studied. All 5 compounds were conjugated with glucuronic acid and the glucuronides were isolated and described. With the exception of 4-hydroxycoumarin, they are also excreted in conjugation with sulfuric acid, and the ethereal sulfates of 3-, 6- and 8-hydroxycoumarins were isolated from the urine. Hydroxylation of 6-hydroxycoumarin to 67-di-hydroxycoumarin (aesculetin) was also observed. The K salts of the sulfuric esters of 3-, 5-, 6- and 8-hydroxycoumarins were synthesized and described. The paper-chromatographic behavior and the color reactions of the hydroxycoumarins and their conjugates are described.