Artocarpus elasticus
Artocarpus elasticus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Artocarpus elasticus is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its potential medicinal applications. Research indicates that specific preparations derived from its barks and root bark possess potent biological activities. Notably, the plant contains the chemical compound Artonin E, which plays a crucial role in its therapeutic profile. Studies have focused on the efficacy of these extracts in targeting anticancer processes within the body. Most importantly, these findings suggest a promising role for the plant in addressing the challenging conditions associated with Triple Negative Breast Cancer.
- Synonyms
- Artocarpus Blumei · Saccus Kunstleri · 3 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Moraceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Artocarpus elasticus is a versatile species known by a variety of local names depending on the region. It is frequently referred to as Benda, though it is also commonly called Bendo or Bendha. In other areas, the plant is identified by the names Terap or Teureup. These diverse linguistic variations reflect the widespread presence and cultural significance of the tree. Understanding these different common names helps researchers and locals alike identify this specific species in the wild.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Artocarpus elasticus is a botanical species known for its complex taxonomic history and multiple nomenclature variations. Throughout scientific study, it has been identified by several synonyms, including Artocarpus blumei and Artocarpus kunstleri. Research also links the plant to the names Saccus blumei and Saccus elasticus within various botanical records. Furthermore, the designation Saccus kunstleri serves as another recognized synonym for this particular species. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for maintaining accurate classification and clear communication in plant science.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Artocarpus elasticus is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae that belongs to the diverse class Equisetopsida. Within this classification, the species is situated in the order Rosales, showcasing its evolutionary ties to other woody plants. It falls under the well-known family Moraceae, a group often characterized by its milky sap and unique fruit structures. Specifically, this plant is identified by its genus, Artocarpus, which helps botanists categorize its distinct morphological traits. Understanding these biological relationships provides essential insight into the complex lineage of this particular species.
| 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 elasticus is a tropical species widely distributed across various regions of Asia. Its presence is firmly established throughout Indo-China, including specific territories in Myanmar and Thailand. The plant also extends its reach into the Malesia region, flourishing in diverse habitats. Within this area, it can be found across Borneo and the island of Jawa. Additionally, its natural range encompasses the various islands of the Lesser Sunda archipelago.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Artocarpus elasticus is a self-supporting tree that commands attention in its natural habitat. It reaches an impressive maximum height of 45 meters as it matures. This robust growth form allows the species to stand tall and dominate the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Artocarpus elasticus holds significant therapeutic potential due to the presence of Artonin E, a medicinal molecule derived from its root bark. Recent studies have highlighted this prenylated flavonoid for its potent anticancer activity against aggressive MDA-MB 231 triple-negative breast cancer cells. By inducing both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis, Artonin E effectively overcomes the evasion mechanisms typically employed by these tumor cells. The compound further disrupts cancer progression by triggering reactive oxygen species release and causing cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. Consequently, these findings position Artonin E as a promising candidate for developing new treatments to combat highly resistant forms of breast cancer.
Compounds
Artocarpus elasticus serves as a vital natural source of the phytochemical Artonin E, which is extracted from its root bark. This unique prenylated flavonoid has demonstrated significant potential in medical research due to its drug-like properties. Specifically, studies show that Artonin E can effectively combat aggressive triple-negative breast cancer cells by inducing programmed cell death. The molecule works by activating both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways while triggering a G2/M cell cycle arrest. Ultimately, these findings suggest that Artonin E is a promising candidate for developing new therapeutic strategies against highly resilient tumors.
Conditions
Artocarpus elasticus contains bioactive compounds that demonstrate significant therapeutic potential against various biological targets. Specifically, the compound artonol A isolated from its root bark treats the A549 human cancer cell line through cytotoxic activity. Additionally, the molecule Artonin E serves as a promising candidate to treat aggressive triple negative breast cancer by inducing apoptosis in MDA-MB 231 cells. The plant's bark also provides dihydrobenzoxanthones and alkylated flavones that act as inhibitors to treat $\alpha$-glucosidase activity. These diverse chemical constituents highlight the multifaceted medicinal properties found within Artocarpus elasticus.
Preparations
Artocarpus elasticus is prepared as barks to facilitate the study of competitive α-glucosidase inhibitors like dihydrobenzoxanthones. These specific bark derivatives include compounds such as artoindonesianin W and artoflavone B. Additionally, Artocarpus elasticus is prepared as root bark for the isolation of various cytotoxic prenylflavonoids. This specific preparation allows for the identification of new structures such as artelastoheterol and cycloartelastoxanthone. Both the barks and the root bark serve as essential sources for extracting bioactive chemical constituents.
Parts used
Artocarpus elasticus serves as a significant source of medicinal phytochemicals, particularly when examining its root bark. Researchers have successfully isolated several unique prenylated flavonoids from this specific part of the plant, including the compound Artonin E. These bioactive molecules have demonstrated remarkable potential in combating aggressive diseases, such as triple-negative breast cancer. Specifically, studies show that components derived from the root can induce apoptosis and inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. Consequently, the root of Artocarpus elasticus remains a vital subject of interest for developing new anticancer drug candidates.