Aglaia elliptica
Aglaia elliptica · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Aglaia elliptica is a noteworthy botanical species recognized for its significant biochemical potential. The plant's leaves and stems serve as primary sources for extracting various specialized chemical compounds. Among these bioactive constituents are 10-O-acetylaglain B, 4-epiaglain A, Aglain A, and methyl rocaglate. Scientific interest in these molecules is driven largely by their documented antitumor activities. Consequently, this species remains a vital subject of study within the field of pharmacological research.
- Synonyms
- Hearnia Elliptica
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Meliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Aglaia elliptica is a versatile species recognized by a diverse array of regional common names. Depending on the local area, it may be referred to as Kalantupak or Lambunau. Other traditional names for this plant include Langsat gajah and Langsat munyit. Additionally, it is sometimes known by the name Malatumbaga. These various designations highlight the plant's significant presence across different cultural landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Aglaia elliptica is a botanical species that is frequently identified by multiple scientific names in various taxonomic records. In many botanical databases, this plant is recognized by the synonym Hearnia elliptica. This nomenclatural overlap can sometimes cause confusion for researchers and gardeners seeking specific information. However, understanding these synonym relationships is essential for maintaining accurate classification within the plant kingdom. Recognizing both names ensures that the species is correctly identified regardless of the historical terminology used.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Aglaia elliptica belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized into the order Sapindales, which connects it to various other flowering plants. The plant is a member of the Meliaceae family, a group known for its distinct botanical characteristics. Finally, it is nested within the genus Aglaia, defining its specific taxonomic identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Aglaia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Aglaia elliptica is a plant species characterized by a widespread distribution across the tropical regions of Asia. Its presence is firmly established throughout Indo-China, spanning specific territories in both Myanmar and Thailand. Moving further south, the species extends into the Malesian region, where it can be found throughout Borneo and Jawa. It also populates the Lesser Sunda Islands, showcasing its ability to thrive in diverse island environments. Collectively, these various locations highlight the significant ecological footprint this plant maintains across Southeast Asia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Aglaia elliptica is a self-supporting species that takes the form of a robust tree. This plant typically reaches impressive dimensions in the wild, with a maximum height that can range between 20 m and 25 m. Its sturdy structure allows it to stand independently within its natural habitat. As it matures, it serves as a significant architectural element in the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Aglaia elliptica has demonstrated significant antitumor potential through the isolation of specific 1H-cyclopenta[b]benzofuran lignans from its stems. Research indicates that compounds such as methyl rocaglate and its derivatives exhibit high potency by inhibiting the growth of various human cancer cells in culture. These substances appear to function through a cytostatic mechanism, primarily by strongly inhibiting protein biosynthesis within the target cells. In vivo studies using human breast cancer models have shown that these compounds can effectively delay tumor growth without causing overt toxicity. While these preliminary findings are promising, further investigation is required to determine the full clinical utility of these plant-derived molecules.
Compounds
Aglaia elliptica serves as a rich source of various bioactive chemical compounds found within its leaves and stems. Chemical examinations of the plant's foliage have successfully isolated several diamides, including the known compounds aglain A and odorine. Furthermore, researchers have identified two specific new diamide derivatives within the species: 10-O-acetylaglain B and 4-epiaglain A. Beyond these diamides, the plant also contains methyl rocaglate, a compound noted for its significant biological activity. Together, these diverse constituents highlight the complex chemical profile of Aglaia elliptica.
Conditions
Aglaia elliptica contains novel 1H-cyclopenta[b]benzofuran lignans that effectively inhibit the growth of human cancer cells in culture. Specifically, isolated compounds from this plant treat the Lu1 human lung carcinoma cell line by inducing cell cycle accumulation and inhibiting protein biosynthesis. The plant also demonstrates an ability to treat the BC1 human breast cancer cell line, as evidenced by delayed growth in in vivo models. These specialized lignans function through a cytostatic mechanism to successfully treat tumor growth. Overall, the extracts from Aglaia elliptica show significant potential in targeting various human cancer cell types.
Preparations
Parts used
Aglaia elliptica serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds found within its various botanical structures. Chemical investigations into the leaves of this species have successfully led to the isolation of unique diamide derivatives and cycloartanes. Furthermore, the stems of Aglaia elliptica contain specialized 1H-cyclopenta[b]benzofuran lignans that exhibit remarkable biological activity. These stem-derived compounds have demonstrated potent cytostatic properties by inhibiting protein biosynthesis in human cancer cell lines. Together, these findings highlight how both the leaves and stems of the plant contribute to its complex chemical profile.