Ainsliaea smithii
Ainsliaea smithii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Ainsliaea smithii is a unique botanical species that has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic properties. Researchers often utilize an aqueous methanolic extract to isolate its bioactive compounds for further study. This specific preparation method allows for a concentrated analysis of the plant's chemical profile. Understanding the composition of such extracts is crucial for exploring the plant's medicinal applications. Consequently, this species serves as an important subject in the ongoing investigation of natural pharmacology.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Taxonomy
Ainsliaea smithii is a unique member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the intricate classification of the natural world. Belonging to the class Equisetopsida, this species is deeply rooted in its botanical lineage. It is categorized under the genus Ainsliaea, which distinguishes its specific morphological traits. Furthermore, it falls within the order Asterales, placing it among a diverse group of flowering plants. Finally, its taxonomic journey concludes within the family Asteraceae, linking it to a vast array of well-known botanical relatives.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ainsliaea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Ainsliaea smithii is a distinctive plant species primarily found within the temperate regions of Asia. Its geographic range is concentrated largely throughout China, where it thrives in specific environmental niches. Within the country, the species shows a notable presence in the South-Central provinces. This distribution pattern highlights the plant's reliance on the particular climatic conditions found in these mid-latitude zones. Understanding these specific locations is essential for researchers studying the natural habitat of this unique flora.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Ainsliaea smithii is characterized by its distinct growth form as a herbaceous plant. This species thrives as a self-supporting organism within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Ainsliaea smithii contains bioactive compounds that demonstrate significant cytotoxic activity against the A549 cancer cell line. Researchers isolated a new sesquiterpene lactone, ainslialide, along with eighteen other known compounds from the plant's aqueous methanolic extract. Testing revealed that the aqueous methanolic extract itself possesses inhibitory effects against these cancer cells with an IC50 of 31.86 μg/ml. Specifically, certain isolates such as epi-friedelanol showed potent activity with an IC50 of 0.44 μM. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Ainsliaea smithii derivatives in treating A549 lung cancer cells.
Preparations
Ainsliaea smithii is prepared as an aqueous methanolic extract to facilitate the isolation of various chemical compounds. This specific extraction process yielded a new sesquiterpene lactone known as ainslialide along with eighteen other known substances. Researchers utilized the aqueous methanolic extract to evaluate cytotoxic activity against the A549 cancer cell line. The resulting extract demonstrated significant biological activity with an $\text{IC}_{50}$ value of $31.86\text{ }\mu\text{g/ml}$. This preparation method serves as the fundamental basis for identifying the plant's therapeutic potential.