Annona spinescens
Annona spinescens · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Annona spinescens is a notable botanical species known for its unique chemical profile and medicinal potential. Scientific investigations have focused on its roots and seeds, particularly through the use of MeOH extract to isolate bioactive compounds. Detailed phytochemical analyses have identified several significant chemical constituents, including pessoine, spinosine, squamocin, and spinencin. These specialized molecules contribute to the complex biological activity characteristic of the plant. Understanding these components is essential for exploring the therapeutic possibilities offered by this species.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Annonaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root · Seed
Classification
Common Names
Annona spinescens is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of local names across different regions. It is frequently referred to as araticum-de-espinho or araticum-atí, highlighting its distinct physical characteristics. In certain areas, the species is known as araticum-laranja or even anona-laranja-da-bahia. Furthermore, the name ata-do-rio-são-francisco connects the plant to specific geographical landmarks. This variety of nomenclature reflects the deep cultural and regional integration of the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Annona spinescens belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse world of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the fundamental vascular plants. The species is further organized into the order Magnoliales, a group known for its distinct evolutionary lineage. It falls under the specific genus Annona, which connects it to many other well-known tropical species. Finally, this plant is a member of the Annonaceae family, highlighting its botanical relationships and structural characteristics.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Annona |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Annona spinescens is a plant species primarily distributed throughout various regions of South America. Within Brazil, its presence is particularly notable across several diverse geographical zones. It can be found thriving in the Northeast, stretching across the landscape to the Southeast. Additionally, the species maintains a significant presence in the West-Central part of the country. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's adaptability to different Brazilian environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Annona spinescens is a self-supporting plant that adopts a distinct tree growth form. It reaches a modest stature, with a maximum height of approximately 4 meters. This compact structure allows it to maintain a sturdy presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Annona spinescens serves as a rich source of diverse bioactive chemical compounds. Scientific investigations into the plant's trunk bark and roots have successfully isolated the catecholic berbine alkaloids pessoine and spinosine. Furthermore, the seeds of this species contain the known acetogenin squamocin. Research also highlights the presence of spinencin within the plant's chemical profile. Together, these various alkaloids and acetogenins underscore the complex phytochemical makeup of Annona spinescens.
Conditions
Preparations
Annona spinescens is prepared as a MeOH extract to facilitate the isolation of specific chemical compounds. This methanol extraction process allowed researchers to identify three new bistetrahydrofuran acetogenins known as carolins A-C. These specific compounds were recovered from the seeds of the plant during the extraction procedure. The study utilized this MeOH extract to further investigate the structural properties of the isolated acetogenins. Consequently, the preparation of Annona spinescens as a MeOH extract was essential for uncovering these new bioactive molecules.
Parts used
Annona spinescens serves as a rich source of diverse bioactive compounds found within its various anatomical structures. Scientific investigations into the plant's roots and trunk bark have led to the isolation of unique berbine alkaloids, such as pessoine and spinosine. Beyond the bark and roots, the seeds of the species also yield significant chemical constituents, including new bistetrahydrofuran acetogenins. These seed-derived compounds, specifically carolins A-C, have been studied for their notable cytotoxic properties. Together, these findings highlight how different parts of the plant contribute to its complex chemical profile.