The reaction of triptolide and its analogues with a fluorinating agent, that is, bis(2-methoxyethyl) aminosulfur trifluoride (Deoxo-Fluor) or ( diethylamino) sulfur trifluoride ( DAST), was studied. One of the fluorinated products, 14 beta-dehydroxy-14 beta-fluoro triptolide, was found to be more cytotoxic than the parent natural triptolide. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.