Maysin, a Flavone Glycoside from Corn Silks with Antibiotic Activity Toward Corn Earworm

Maysin (rhamnosyl-6-C-(4-ketofucosyl)-5,7,3′, 4′ tetrahydroxyflavone (I), isolated from corn silks of the exotic strain Zapalote Chico’ has been shown to severely retard the growth of Heliothis zea (Boddie) when incorporated into the insect's diet. Data indicate that the presence of this flavone glycoside may be related to the natural resistance of corn against corn earworm.