Angiopteris evecta

Angiopteris evecta · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Angiopteris evecta is a large fern species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to the unique bioactive potential of its plant parts. Researchers have focused specifically on the medicinal properties found within the leaf and the rhizome of this plant. Various preparations, including the leaf extract, ethyl acetate extract (AE-EA), and the (-)-epi-osmundalactone-rich fraction (OLRF), are being investigated for their therapeutic effects. Current studies are exploring how these compounds might influence pathological conditions such as adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma. Specifically, the investigation examines their ability to modulate inflammatory markers like IL-6 in the context of these diseases.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Angiopteris Brongniartiana · Angiopteris Acrocarpa · 21 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Marattiaceae
Distribution
Asia-Temperate
Plant Parts
Leaf · Rhizome

Classification

Common Names

Angiopteris evecta is a remarkable plant known by a variety of distinct common names across different regions. It is frequently referred to as the King fern or Giant fern, highlighting its impressive scale and presence. In certain areas, it is also identified by the local name Paku Gajah or simply as Dermarm. Botanists and enthusiasts may also encounter it under the names Paprastasis angiopteris or the unique Titanbregne. This diversity in nomenclature reflects the widespread recognition and varied cultural associations of this magnificent species.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Angiopteris evecta is a complex species that has been identified by several different botanical names throughout history. Scientific literature frequently lists various synonyms for this plant, including Angiopteris acrocarpa and Angiopteris alata. It is also recognized under the names Angiopteris aurata and Angiopteris beecheyana in certain taxonomic contexts. Furthermore, the designation Angiopteris brongniartiana has been utilized to describe specimens of this fern. Understanding these various nomenclature relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Angiopteris evecta is a remarkable organism that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This species is a prominent member of the genus Angiopteris, showcasing unique evolutionary traits. It further belongs to the order Marattiales, placing it within a specialized group of ferns. Finally, its biological lineage is completed by its membership in the family Marattiaceae.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Marattiidae
Order Marattiales
Family Marattiaceae
Genus Angiopteris

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Angiopteris evecta is a remarkable plant species with an expansive geographic range spanning across several major regions. In the tropical reaches of Asia, it can be found thriving throughout Papuasia, including the Bismarck Archipelago and New Guinea. Its presence also extends into the Australasia region, where it establishes itself within the diverse landscapes of Australia. Specifically, the species is widely distributed across the states of New South Wales, Queensland, and the Northern Territory. This widespread occurrence highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various tropical and subtropical environments.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Angiopteris evecta is a unique herb characterized by its robust, self-supporting growth form. While some specimens may only reach a modest height of 0.8 meters, others can grow significantly larger. In ideal conditions, this plant can achieve a maximum height of up to 5 meters. This variation in size highlights the impressive structural capabilities of the species.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Angiopteris evecta demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML) through its anti-leukemic activities. Extracts from this plant effectively target various leukemic cell lines, including the successful treatment of EoL-1 and KG-1a cells. The plant's compounds also exert control over cellular processes by inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest to inhibit proliferation. Furthermore, its bioactive constituents provide anti-inflammatory benefits by suppressing the production of IL-6 in macrophages. These diverse biological actions highlight the plant's promising role in managing both malignancy and inflammation.

Preparations

Angiopteris evecta is prepared as a leaf extract, which has demonstrated significant antituberculosis activity with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 400 μg/ml. This medicinal fern is also prepared as an ethyl acetate extract, known as AE-EA, which shows strong growth inhibitory activity against non-small cell lung cancer cells. Through bioactivity-guided fractionation of the AE-EA, the plant is further prepared as an (-)-epi-osmundalactone-rich fraction (OLRF). Both the AE-EA and the OLRF work to suppress cancer cell proliferation and induce intrinsic apoptosis by modulating the MAPK signaling pathway. These various preparations of Angiopteris evecta highlight its diverse potential as a source for anti-cancer and antituberculosis agents.

Parts used

Angiopteris evecta is a medicinal plant that possesses distinct morphological components used for various therapeutic purposes. Research indicates that the leaf of this species exhibits significant antituberculosis activity, demonstrating the highest potency among the screened Malaysian plants. Furthermore, the rhizome of the plant has been identified as a rich source of bioactive compounds, including a specific furanone. These rhizome extracts show promising anti-leukemic potential by inducing apoptosis in cancer cell lines while maintaining low toxicity to normal cells. Together, these findings highlight how different parts of the plant contribute to its diverse pharmacological profile.