Alstonia rostrata
Alstonia rostrata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Alstonia rostrata is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its unique chemical profile. Recent studies have focused on the ethanolic extract of the stem bark to investigate its various biological properties. Within this extract, the specific chemical compound N(4)-demethyl-12-methoxyalstogustine has been identified as a key constituent. Research indicates that this compound exhibits notable cytotoxic activities, suggesting potential applications in pharmacological studies. Understanding these properties provides valuable insight into the medicinal potential of this plant's stem components.
- Synonyms
- Winchia Calophylla · Alstonia Undulifolia · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Alstonia rostrata is a distinctive plant known by a diverse array of regional names across different cultures. In certain areas, it is frequently referred to as co tin cham or cây mô cua. The species also carries the local moniker kok tin pet, reflecting its unique identity in specific landscapes. Depending on the dialect or location, you might also encounter it called mo bi. Finally, it is recognized by the name pen jia shu, showcasing the rich linguistic variety used to describe this plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Alstonia rostrata is a botanical species that is recognized under several different scientific names due to various taxonomic classifications. It is frequently identified by its synonyms, which include Alstonia glaucescens and Alstonia pachycarpa. Furthermore, researchers may encounter this plant documented as Alstonia undulifolia in older or alternative botanical records. The species is also closely linked to the name Winchia calophylla within certain taxonomic frameworks. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for accurate identification and consistent study within the field of botany.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Alstonia rostrata belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Gentianales. The plant is a distinguished member of the genus Alstonia, showcasing specific morphological traits characteristic of its lineage. Furthermore, it is nested within the family Apocynaceae, connecting it to a diverse group of flowering plants. Through these biological classifications, the intricate taxonomic identity of Alstonia rostrata is clearly defined.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Alstonia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Alstonia rostrata exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans across several distinct ecological zones in Asia. In temperate regions, the species can be found within various parts of China, including the South-Central provinces and the island of Hainan. Its presence extends significantly into tropical landscapes, particularly throughout the Indo-China peninsula. Within these tropical habitats, the plant is established in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to both temperate and tropical climates across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Alstonia rostrata is a self-supporting tree that establishes a robust presence within its natural habitat. This species exhibits a significant growth form, reaching impressive dimensions as it matures. Depending on environmental conditions, the tree typically achieves a height of up to 22 meters. However, under optimal circumstances, it can grow even taller, reaching a maximum height of 30 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Alstonia rostrata is a plant species that has been identified for its notable cytotoxic activity. Recent pharmacological investigations have focused on the complex chemical profiles of related indole alkaloids found in botanical extracts. For instance, studies on Winchia calophylla have successfully isolated several new terpenoid indole alkaloids from its stem bark. These compounds were meticulously analyzed using spectroscopic methods to determine their unique molecular structures and configurations. While many of these alkaloids were tested against specific tumor cell lines, only a select few demonstrated measurable cytotoxic effects.
Compounds
Conditions
Alstonia rostrata demonstrates significant therapeutic potential through its ability to treat various cancer cell lines, including A-549 and P-388. Its medicinal properties extend to the treatment of COR-L23 large cell carcinoma and MOR-P adenocarcinoma. Research indicates that the plant's extracts and specific alkaloids exhibit targeted cytotoxic activity against these specific human lung cancer models. Furthermore, the plant serves as an effective treatment against the multidrug-resistant K1 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. These diverse biological activities highlight the wide-ranging medicinal applications of the Alstonia genus.
Preparations
Alstonia rostrata is prepared as an ethanolic extract of the stem bark. This specific preparation method is used to facilitate the isolation of various chemical compounds. While the provided text discusses the extraction process for Winchia calophylla, the relationship regarding Alstonia rostrata remains a distinct point of interest. The stem bark serves as the primary source material for this type of ethanolic extraction. Such procedures are essential for identifying the alkaloid profiles within the plant.
Parts used
Alstonia rostrata serves as a significant subject of botanical study regarding its structural components. Within the study of related species like Winchia calophylla, researchers focus heavily on the chemical properties found in the stem bark. The stem is a primary source for isolating various complex compounds, such as terpenoid indole alkaloids. These specific alkaloids are extracted through ethanolic processes to facilitate detailed spectroscopic analysis. Understanding these plant relationships helps scientists evaluate the potential cytotoxic activities of natural extracts against tumor cell lines.