As a part of the search for biologically active plant products, M cells, wh
ich form a collagen fiber network in vitro after a prolonged culture period
, were used. The n-BuOH-soluble fraction of a methanol extract of leaves of
Premna subscandens exhibited promotion of collagen network formation by M
cells. Extensive isolation work guided by a bioassay afforded a phenylethan
oid, acteoside, as an active compound.