Fungicidal activity of beta-thujaplicin analogues

The fungicidal activity of analogues of beta -thujaplicin, a natural produc t responsible for the durability of heartwood of several cupressaceous tree s, was investigated in vitro on the growth of different white and brown rot fungi involved in wood biodegradation, Coriolus versicolor, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Poria placenta and Gloephyllum trabeum. The study shows that 2-hydroxycyclohepta-2,4,6-trienone (tropolone), easily prepared according to a literature procedure, possesses interesting fungicidal activity when c ompared to beta -thujaplicin, azaconazole, tebuconazole and copper oxine, w hich suggests this compound should be examined further as a potential bioci de for wood preservation. (C) 2001 Society of Chemical Industry.