Carapa macrantha
Carapa macrantha · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Carapa macrantha is a botanical species that has garnered scientific interest due to its diverse biological properties. Research has specifically highlighted its potential antiplasmodial activities, making it a subject of study for malaria treatment. The plant's medicinal potential is found within various parts, including the fruit, root, and stem. Recent investigations have focused on the efficacy of a specific dichloromethane/methanol (1:1) root extract. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the phytochemical profile and therapeutic value of this species.
- Synonyms
- Carapa Oreophila
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Meliaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit · Root
Classification
Synonyms
Carapa macrantha is a botanical species that is frequently discussed within the context of its taxonomic history. Researchers and botanists often identify this plant under the synonym Carapa oreophila depending on the classification system being utilized. This nomenclatural overlap highlights the complexities inherent in documenting diverse tropical flora. Understanding these synonymous relationships is essential for ensuring accuracy in scientific literature and herbarium records. Consequently, recognizing both names allows for more precise communication within the global botanical community.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Carapa macrantha belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse branch of life on Earth. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the flowering plants. This species is a proud member of the genus Carapa, which defines its unique morphological characteristics. It further falls under the order Sapindales, a group known for many significant woody species. Ultimately, this plant is categorized within the family Meliaceae, connecting it to a specialized lineage of tropical trees.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Carapa |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Carapa macrantha is a notable plant species primarily distributed across the diverse landscapes of West and Central Tropical Africa. Its presence is well-documented in Nigeria, marking a significant portion of its western range. Moving deeper into the continent, the species flourishes within the West-Central Tropical Africa region, specifically inhabiting areas such as Cabinda and Cameroon. The plant's reach further extends into the lush environments of Gabon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Collectively, these locations highlight a concentrated geographic footprint within the African tropical belt.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Carapa macrantha is characterized by its distinct growth form as a tree.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Carapa macrantha has emerged as a promising botanical source for the development of new antiplasmodial agents. Recent molecular networking investigations into its root, stem bark, and fruit extracts have led to the isolation of several bioactive limonoids and steroids. Specifically, dichloromethane/methanol root extracts demonstrated significant inhibitory activity against both chloroquine-sensitive and multidrug-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Among the identified compounds, certain molecules such as compound 17 showed exceptional potency against these malaria-causing parasites. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of this medicinal plant in the ongoing fight against drug-resistant malaria.
Compounds
Conditions
Carapa macrantha demonstrates significant antiplasmodial activity against the chloroquine-sensitive Pf3D7 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. The plant also effectively treats the multidrug-resistant PfDd2 strain of the same parasite. Specifically, extracts and isolated compounds from the plant exhibit measurable potency against both the Pf3D7 and PfDd2 strains. This medicinal plant provides antiplasmodial activity that is effective against the sensitive 3D7 strain. Furthermore, its bioactive components are capable of treating the multidrug-resistant Dd2 strains, marking it as a valuable source of antiplasmodial agents.
Preparations
Carapa macrantha is prepared as a dichloromethane (CH2Cl2)/methanol (MeOH) (1:1) root extract for molecular networking-driven investigation. This specific extraction process was used to facilitate the targeted isolation of several bioactive compounds, including seven previously undescribed limonoids. Through this method, researchers were able to evaluate the extract's biological efficacy against various strains of Plasmodium falciparum. The resulting root extract demonstrated significant antiplasmodial activity, particularly against the multidrug-resistant Dd2 strain. Consequently, the preparation of this specific extract serves as a critical step in identifying potential antiplasmodial agents from the plant.
Parts used
Carapa macrantha is a medicinal plant that offers significant pharmacological potential through various biological components. Recent investigations have focused on extracting bioactive compounds from its root, stem bark, and fruit. Specifically, the study utilized molecular networking to analyze extracts from the stem, fruit, and roots to isolate several new limonoids. These different plant parts were found to contain diverse chemical structures, including unique pregnane-type steroids. Ultimately, the chemical profiles found within these specific parts highlight the species as a promising source for developing antiplasmodial agents.