Phorbol esters


Phorbol esters are a class of chemical compounds found in a variety of plants, particularly in the families Euphorbiaceae and Thymelaeaceae. Chemically, they are ester derivatives of the tetracyclic diterpenoid phorbol.

Biological activity

Phorbol esters are known for their ability to promote tumors. In particular, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate is used as a biomedical research tool in models of carcinogenesis.
Plants that contain phorbol esters are often poisonous.