Amblynotus rupestris
Amblynotus rupestris · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Amblynotus rupestris is a plant species that has become a subject of significant toxicological interest. Research focusing on the plant material has revealed concerning physiological effects when ingested. Specifically, studies conducted on the ethanol extract of the leaf have demonstrated notable biological risks. Investigations indicate that the substance possesses both carcinogenic and hepatotoxic activities. Consequently, understanding these harmful properties is essential for assessing the safety profile of this plant.
- Synonyms
- Amblynotus Chinganicus · Amblynotus Davuricus · 11 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Synonyms
Amblynotus rupestris is a species characterized by a complex taxonomic history involving several recognized synonyms. Scientific literature identifies this plant under various alternative names, including Amblynotus chinganicus and Amblynotus davuricus. It has also been classified as Amblynotus obovatus in different botanical contexts. Furthermore, the species is linked to the names Anchusa pauciflora and Anchusa rupestris within older records. Understanding these various designations is essential for maintaining accuracy in modern botanical research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Amblynotus rupestris is a distinct biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It falls specifically into the order Boraginales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. Further refinement places the plant within the family Boraginaceae. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Amblynotus, completing its scientific profile.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Amblynotus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Amblynotus rupestris is a species primarily distributed throughout the Asia-Temperate region. Its presence is well-documented across various parts of Central Asia, specifically within Kazakhstan. In China, the species can be found across several distinct territories, including Inner Mongolia, Manchuria, and Xinjiang. Additionally, its range extends into the country of Mongolia. This broad geographic footprint highlights the adaptability of the species within its temperate habitat.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Amblynotus rupestris is a small herb characterized by its compact and low-growing habit. This plant typically maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of only 0.2 meters. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, its height can fluctuate between a minimum of 0.05 meters and its peak growth.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Amblynotus rupestris has been identified as a plant containing toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids through advanced chemical screening methods. The presence of these specific alkaloids is highly concerning due to their significant biological risks. Specifically, the compounds found within the plant are expected to exhibit carcinogenic activity. Furthermore, research indicates that these substances possess potent hepatotoxic properties. Consequently, the consumption of this plant should be strictly avoided to prevent serious health complications.
Compounds
Amblynotus rupestris serves as a significant botanical source for several unique chemical compounds. Through the analysis of ethanol extracts, researchers have successfully identified specific lignan oligosaccharide esters within the plant. These important constituents include rupestrin A, rupestrin B, and rupestrin C. The structural identities of these three molecules were carefully determined using a combination of spectroscopic and chemical evidence. Consequently, these findings highlight the complex chemical profile inherent to this species.
Conditions
Amblynotus rupestris contains toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) that present significant health risks. These alkaloids, identified through advanced RP-HPLC-MS screening, include various complex structures such as 9-angeloyl-7-viridifloryl-retronecine. Because these specific chemical compounds are known to be both carcinogenic and hepatotoxic, the plant poses a danger to consumers. The presence of these unsaturated 1,2-double bond structures in the necine moiety confirms their toxicity. Consequently, the consumption of Amblynotus rupestris should be strictly avoided to prevent serious physiological harm.
Preparations
Amblynotus rupestris is prepared as an ethanol extract to isolate specific lignan oligosaccharide esters such as rupestrin A, B, and C. Additionally, the plant is processed as plant material to facilitate the screening of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These dried samples undergo extraction processes to identify chemical structures within the species. The use of such materials allows researchers to detect various ester types through advanced spectroscopic methods. Consequently, both the extract and the raw plant material serve as essential subjects for chemical analysis and toxicity assessments.
Parts used
Amblynotus rupestris, commonly known as Eritrichium rupestre, was included in a recent study focused on the screening of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Researchers utilized a specialized procedure involving gradient HPLC and thermabeam electron impact mass spectrometry to analyze various plant components. Specifically, the study examined the leaf material of this species to identify the presence of dangerous chemical compounds. The analysis revealed that the leaves contain toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids, such as those with unsaturated 1,2-double bonds in the necine moiety. Given the expected carcinogenic and hepatotoxic properties of these alkaloids, the consumption of this plant should be strictly avoided.