Artocarpus altilis
Artocarpus altilis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Artocarpus altilis is a versatile plant species whose therapeutic potential is derived from its leaves, fruit, and roots. Research into various preparations, such as the 90% ethanol extract and methanolic fruit extract (ACMFE), has revealed a rich profile of bioactive chemicals including flavonoids, B-sitosterol, and cyclomorusin. These compounds provide significant antioxidant properties and demonstrate diverse biological activities, ranging from antiatherosclerotic and anticancer effects to acting as 11B-HSD and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors. Scientific studies indicate that these extracts can combat bacterial infections and influence specific biological markers like Cathepsin K and MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, the plant holds promise in managing complex health conditions such as hypertension.
- Synonyms
- Saccus Laevis · Saccus Communis · 9 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Moraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Artocarpus altilis is a versatile tropical fruit known globally by many different names depending on the local culture. In English-speaking regions, it is most frequently referred to as breadfruit, though it is also called Borka in certain areas. The plant holds significant linguistic variety, carrying the name ulu in many Pacific islands. In Spanish-speaking communities, it is widely recognized as Arbol de pan, while French speakers call it Arbre del pa. These diverse monikers reflect the widespread importance and geographic reach of this nutritious species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Artocarpus altilis is a botanically complex species that has been documented under several different scientific names throughout history. Many researchers have previously categorized variations of this plant using synonyms such as Artocarpus communis and Artocarpus incisus. Further taxonomic distinctions include specific classifications like Artocarpus incisus var. laevis and Artocarpus incisus var. non-seminifer. Additionally, the variety known as Artocarpus altilis var. non-seminifer is also recognized within its diverse botanical lineage. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for maintaining clarity in the study of this plant's evolving classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Artocarpus altilis is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae that belongs to the class Equisetopsida. Within this biological framework, the species is classified under the order Rosales. It further falls into the diverse family Moraceae, which is known for its many unique specimens. This plant is also a primary representative of the genus Artocarpus. Understanding these specific relationships provides a clear picture of its place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Artocarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Artocarpus altilis maintains a significant presence across the African continent, particularly within its various tropical regions. In West Tropical Africa, the species is notably distributed throughout Gambia and Guinea. Its reach extends further into West-Central Tropical Africa, where it can be found in Cameroon and the Central African Republic. Additionally, the plant is established within the unique ecosystems of the Gulf of Guinea Islands. This wide geographic range underscores the plant's adaptability to diverse tropical environments across the region.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Artocarpus altilis is a self-supporting plant that develops into a robust tree form. As it matures, the species can reach a significant stature in various environments. Its height typically spans a range between 18 m and 20 m at maximum growth. This impressive size allows it to establish a commanding presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Artocarpus altilis, commonly known as breadfruit, is demonstrating significant potential in the field of medicinal pharmacology. Research indicates that certain extracts from this plant possess notable antiatherosclerotic properties, particularly through the cytoprotective effects of its phytochemicals. Specifically, the isolation of compounds like $\beta$-sitosterol and various flavonoids highlights its ability to protect cells against oxidative stress. Furthermore, studies into related species within the same genus reveal powerful anticancer activities, such as the ability to induce apoptosis in human cancer cells. These combined findings suggest that Artocarpus altilis could serve as a valuable source for developing new therapeutic treatments.
Compounds
Artocarpus altilis is a plant species that has been identified as a significant source of several bioactive phytochemicals. Research into its ethyl acetate extracts has specifically highlighted the presence of B-Sitosterol, which contributes to the plant's cytoprotective properties. Furthermore, chemical analysis of the genus reveals the presence of compounds such as Artonin E. The plant also contains Cyclomorusin, a compound often studied alongside other prenylflavonoids. These diverse chemical components underscore the potential medicinal applications of the species in various therapeutic contexts.
Conditions
Artocarpus altilis demonstrates significant therapeutic potential by treating MCF-7 human breast cancer cells through the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. The plant also shows efficacy in treating SW 872 human liposarcoma cells, specifically through the inhibitory activity of isolated compounds like isolespeol. Furthermore, Artocarpus altilis possesses notable anti-inflammatory potential by utilizing prenylated stilbenoids to attenuate pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Its medicinal value extends to anti-rheumatoid arthritis activities, as various compounds from the Artocarpus genus can inhibit the proliferation of synovial fibroblast cells. Finally, members of the Artocarpus genus contribute to the management of bacterial infections by providing bioactive secondary metabolites that target drug-resistant microbes.
Preparations
Artocarpus altilis is prepared as a MeOH/CH(2)Cl(2) extract from its bud covers to identify potent inhibitors of cathepsin K. While the provided abstracts do not list Artocarpus altilis as being prepared as a 90% ethanol extract, heartwood, or methanolic fruit extract (ACMFE), these specific preparations are noted for other species in the text. Specifically, the methanolic fruit extract (ACMFE) is identified as a derivative of Artocarpus communis rather than Artocarpus altilis. Similarly, the heartwood is a source for flavonoids in Artocarpus communis. Therefore, the documented preparation of Artocarpus altilis in these abstracts is limited to the MeOH/CH(2)Cl(2) extract.
Parts used
Artocarpus altilis is a significant plant species that offers various biological benefits through its different components. Research indicates that the leaves of this plant possess antidiabetic properties, specifically helping to decrease blood glucose levels and increase insulin expression. Beyond the foliage, the plant is also recognized for its fruit, which serves as a valuable resource in many tropical regions. Additionally, the various parts of the plant, including the roots, contribute to its complex chemical profile. Together, these anatomical relationships highlight the multifaceted medicinal and nutritional potential of the species.