Cyclea racemosa

Cyclea racemosa · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Cyclea racemosa is a fascinating plant species that has garnered significant interest within the field of pharmacological research. Scientific investigations have specifically focused on the medicinal potential found within its root system. Preliminary studies have revealed that extracts derived from these roots exhibit notable cytotoxic activities. This biological property suggests that the plant may hold promise for future developments in cancer research and drug discovery. Understanding these cellular interactions is essential for unlocking the full therapeutic potential of this unique species.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Cyclea Racemosa F. Emeiensis
Common names
Not available
Family
Menispermaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Root

Classification

Common Names

Cyclea racemosa is a versatile plant known by several distinct regional names. It is frequently referred to as 小青藤香 and 白解藤 in various botanical contexts. Some people also recognize the species as 良藤 depending on local classification. Furthermore, it is commonly identified by the names 輪环藤 and 轮环藤. These multiple designations highlight the diverse linguistic ways this single species is categorized.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Cyclea racemosa is a botanical species that is occasionally identified by its taxonomic synonym, Cyclea racemosa f. emeiensis. This nomenclature indicates that the latter is recognized as a specific form within the broader species classification. Understanding these botanical relationships is essential for researchers studying the genetic diversity of the plant. Such synonymy helps clarify the complex historical classifications used by botanists over time. Consequently, recognizing these links ensures more accurate data collection in plant science literature.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Cyclea racemosa is a distinct botanical entity that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Ranunculales, showcasing its evolutionary lineage. More specifically, this species is a member of the genus Cyclea. Finally, it is situated within the family Menispermaceae, completing its scientific taxonomic profile.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Ranunculales
Family Menispermaceae
Genus Cyclea

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Cyclea racemosa is a notable plant species with a widespread presence across the Asia-Temperate region. Its geographic footprint is particularly concentrated within the diverse landscapes of China. Specifically, the plant can be found thriving in the North-Central provinces of the country. It also maintains significant populations throughout the South-Central territories. Furthermore, its distribution extends into the lush environments of Southeast China, showcasing its adaptability to varying climates.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Biological Activities

Cyclea racemosa serves as a rich source of bioactive bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids derived from its roots. Recent chemical investigations have successfully isolated several new compounds, specifically racemosidines A-C and racemosinines A-C. Through rigorous spectroscopic data and X-ray crystallographic analysis, researchers established the unique structures and absolute configurations of these molecules. Notably, the study revealed that compounds 1 through 3 exhibit significant cytotoxic activity against HCT-8 and BEL-7402 tumor cells. Additionally, compound 1 demonstrated further cytotoxic potential against A2780 tumor cells, highlighting the plant's pharmacological interest.

Compounds

Conditions

Cyclea racemosa contains bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids that demonstrate significant medicinal potential against various cancer lines. Specifically, certain compounds isolated from its roots exhibit cytotoxicity against HCT-8 tumor cells. These same alkaloids also show effectiveness in treating BEL-7402 tumor cells. Furthermore, compound 1 derived from the plant has been proven to treat A2780 tumor cells. These findings highlight the plant's ability to target multiple specific tumor cell types.

Preparations

Parts used

Cyclea racemosa serves as a rich source of bioactive chemical compounds, particularly within its root system. Recent research has focused on isolating several unique bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids, such as racemosidines and racemosinines, from these plant roots. Through detailed spectroscopic data and X-ray crystallographic analysis, scientists have successfully established the complex structures of these new molecules. Notably, certain isolated compounds have demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity against various tumor cell lines, including HCT-8 and BEL-7402. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential held within the chemical makeup of the Cyclea racemosa root.