Allophylus cobbe
Allophylus cobbe · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Allophylus cobbe is a woody shrub known for its diverse biochemical profile and potential pharmacological applications. In this study, the leaf extracts of the plant were specifically utilized to investigate their biological activity. The experimental focus was centered on evaluating the effects of these extracts on HepG2 cells. This specific cell line serves as a critical model for assessing hepatotoxicity and metabolic interactions. Through this approach, the potential therapeutic properties of the plant's leaf components can be thoroughly characterized.
- Synonyms
- Allophylus Cobbe F. Racemosus · Allophylus Serrulatus · 15 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Synonyms
Allophylus cobbe is a botanical species characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Scientific literature identifies this plant under various alternative names, including the forms Allophylus cobbe f. racemosus and Allophylus filiger. It is also frequently referred to in historical records as Allophylus serrulatus. Further nomenclatural connections link the species to the names Aporetica gemella and Gemella trifoliata. Understanding these diverse designations is essential for accurate identification and study within the botanical community.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Allophylus cobbe is a distinctive botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further organized into the order Sapindales, reflecting its specific evolutionary lineage. This plant is a member of the Sapindaceae family, showcasing its structural connections to related species. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Allophylus, which defines its unique biological identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Allophylus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Allophylus cobbe is a plant species primarily distributed across the tropical regions of Asia. Its presence is particularly concentrated within the Indian Subcontinent, spanning diverse territories from India to Bangladesh. The species also thrives in the specific environmental conditions found in Assam. Furthermore, its range extends to island locations including the Laccadive Islands and the Maldives. This broad geographical footprint highlights the plant's adaptability to various tropical habitats across the region.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Allophylus cobbe is a self-supporting plant that typically adopts a shrub-like growth form. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, this species can reach a maximum height of 6 meters. However, in some instances, the plant may grow even larger, reaching up to 15 meters. This versatility in stature allows it to adapt effectively to its surroundings.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Allophylus cobbe leaf extracts demonstrate significant cytotoxic activity against the HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line. Various solvent treatments, including hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol, were used to achieve these results. Specifically, the dichloromethane extract showed the highest potency with an IC50 value of 6.8 μg/mL. These extracts effectively target HepG2 cells while maintaining less toxicity toward normal THLE-3 liver epithelial cells. Such findings highlight the potential of Allophylus cobbe as a source for isolating anti-cancer compounds for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.
Preparations
Parts used
Allophylus cobbe holds significant promise in the ongoing search for effective treatments against hepatocellular carcinoma. Research into endemic medicinal plants in Sri Lanka has identified the leaves of this species as a source of potent cytotoxic activity. Specifically, various extracts derived from the Allophylus cobbe leaf, including hexane and methanol, demonstrated impressive ability to inhibit HepG2 cancer cells. These extracts also exhibited a favorable safety profile by showing low toxicity toward normal liver epithelial cells. Such findings suggest that the bioactive compounds found within the plant's leaves may serve as a vital foundation for developing new anti-cancer therapies.