C8, and C10 of genipin were conducted, and the neurotrophic effects of all derivatives were studied. Genipinderivatives 1–4 were obtained in mild to high yield. Compounds 1 and 4 are more stable than genipin if exposed to nucleophiles. All the derivatives display higher neurotrophic activities than genipin. Compound 4 is the most active, with the least optimal dose. Both genipin and 4 up‐regulated