2,4-Methanoproline (2-Carboxy-2,4-methanopyrrolidine) and 2,4-Methanoglutamic Acid (l-Amino-l ,3-dicarboxycyclobutane) in Seeds of Ateleia herbert smithii Pittier (Leguminosae)

Abstract

A new acidic amino acid, 2,4-methanoglutamic acid, containing a cyclobutane ring and a new imino acid, 2,4-methanoproline, containing the previously unknown 2-azabicyclo[2.1.I)hexane system have been isolated from seeds of Ateleia herbert smithii. The structures of the two compounds were confirmed by X-ray crystallography. Unlike most amino and imino acids the isolated compounds do not show optical activity. Their possible biological significance is discussed.