Byrsocarpus coccineus
Byrsocarpus coccineus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Byrsocarpus coccineus is a botanical species currently being investigated for its diverse pharmacological potential in medicinal research. Studies have focused on utilizing the leaf as the primary source for creating a specialized hydro-ethanolic extract. This plant preparation is being rigorously tested for its biological activity against various cellular models, including HT29 cells. Research suggests that the extract may hold significant implications for addressing complex health issues such as tumors and ovarian cancer. Furthermore, its therapeutic properties are being explored for their potential impact on conditions related to male infertility.
- Synonyms
- Rourea Coccinea
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Connaraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Synonyms
Byrsocarpus coccineus is a notable botanical species that is frequently identified by its scientific synonym, Rourea coccinea. This nomenclatural link highlights the evolving nature of plant classification within taxonomic studies. Researchers often encounter both names when documenting the plant's specific characteristics and ecological roles. Understanding these synonymies is essential for maintaining accuracy in botanical databases and field guides. Consequently, recognizing that these names refer to the same organism ensures consistency in scientific communication.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Byrsocarpus coccineus is a unique biological entity that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It specifically falls under the order Oxalidales, showcasing its distinct evolutionary placement. Further narrowing its identity, the plant is a member of the family Connaraceae. Ultimately, this species is defined by its placement within the genus Byrsocarpus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Connaraceae |
| Genus | Byrsocarpus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Byrsocarpus coccineus is a plant species with a significant presence across the diverse landscapes of the African continent. Its distribution spans from the East Tropical Africa region, where it can be found in Kenya and Tanzania. Moving southward, the species also establishes itself within South Tropical Africa. Specifically, it inhabits the varied environments of Angola, Mozambique, and Zambia. This wide geographic range highlights the plant's ability to thrive in multiple tropical ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Compounds
Byrsocarpus coccineus is a plant species that has been identified as a source of specific bioactive flavonoid glycosides. Through the analysis of ethanolic extracts from its leaves, researchers have successfully isolated several key compounds. Notably, the plant contains quercetin, a well-known flavonoid. In addition to this, the chemical profile of the species includes quercetin 3-beta-D-glucoside and quercetin-3-O-alpha-arabinoside. These findings provide important new insights into the unique phytochemical composition of this particular plant.
Conditions
Byrsocarpus coccineus enhances the activity of the CYP3A4 enzyme, a factor that may impact the efficacy of co-administered drugs. This plant also demonstrates significant antiproliferative effects on HT29 cells. In studies involving ovarian cancer, the ethanol leaf extract of B. coccineus effectively treats OVCAR-3 and SW 626 cell lines by inhibiting migration and colony formation. Furthermore, the plant, identified as Rourea coccinea, treats ethanol-induced male infertility by restoring testosterone levels and improving sperm parameters in animal models. Together, these biological activities highlight the diverse therapeutic potential of the species.
Preparations
Byrsocarpus coccineus is utilized in various medicinal forms, including its use as a plant preparation for the traditional management of tumors in Nigeria. In scientific studies, this species is prepared as an extract to investigate specific therapeutic properties. Specifically, the plant is prepared as an ethanol leaf extract to test its anti-proliferative effects against ovarian cancer cell lines. Research also indicates that the species can be prepared as a hydro-ethanolic extract for pharmacological evaluation. These different preparations allow researchers to analyze how the plant modulates cell cycle markers and induces apoptosis.
Parts used
Byrsocarpus coccineus is a plant species of significant pharmacological interest, particularly due to the bioactive potential found within its leaves. Research has successfully isolated specific flavonoid glycosides, such as quercetin 3-O-alpha-arabinoside, from ethanolic extracts of these leaf structures. Beyond their chemical composition, the leaf extracts have demonstrated notable anti-proliferative activities against specific ovarian cancer cell lines. Studies indicate that these extracts can inhibit cell migration and modulate essential tumor suppressor genes in a dose-dependent manner. Consequently, the leaves of Byrsocarpus coccineus represent a promising area for further investigation into natural treatments for gynecologic malignancies.