ISOLATION OF A STEROID-LIKE SUBSTANCE FROM URINE AND CITROUS FRUITS

Abstract

The isolation and the partial chemical and physicochemical characterization of a chloroform-soluble substance obtained from human urine and citrous fruit juices are presented. The urinary compound, designated as compound III, is present mostly as a conjugate hydrolyzed by animal [beta]-glucuronidase whereas it is in free form in fruit juices. It is present in the urine of normal males and females and in a number of pathological conditions. Its urinary excretion is significantly increased as a result of diets rich in potassium (250 meq./day). In various paper chromatographic systems, the compound has a mobility similar to that of aldosterone. Detailed study of its chemical and physicochemical characteristics, including oxidative degradation and infrared and elementary analysis, suggests a steroidal or sesquiterpinoidal structure. However, at the present time, the data obtained do not permit the final elucidation of the chemical formula of compound III.