Cyclea wattii
Cyclea wattii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Cyclea wattii is a distinctive climbing shrub belonging to the Menispermaceae family. While much of the plant's structure is visible above ground, its hidden root system plays a vital role in its survival. These roots serve as a critical foundation for absorbing nutrients and water from the tropical soil. Understanding the botanical characteristics of the root is essential for studying the plant's overall growth patterns. This species continues to be a subject of interest for those exploring forest biodiversity.
- Synonyms
- Paracyclea Wattii
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Menispermaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Cyclea wattii is a distinct climbing plant known scientifically by its botanical designation. In local regions, it is frequently referred to by the common name 西南轮环藤. This nomenclature highlights its specific ecological niche and regional significance within its native habitat. Understanding these naming conventions is essential for botanists and researchers studying its unique characteristics. By connecting its scientific identity to its local identity, we gain a deeper appreciation for this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Cyclea wattii is a botanical species that is frequently identified in scientific literature under a different name. In many taxonomic records, this plant is recognized by its synonym, Paracyclea wattii. Understanding these nomenclatural links is essential for researchers studying the plant's evolutionary history. This relationship ensures that data remains consistent even when different naming conventions are applied. Consequently, recognizing both terms allows for more accurate classification within the broader plant kingdom.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Cyclea wattii is a unique botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the diverse order Ranunculales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. Specifically, this plant is a member of the genus Cyclea. Finally, it is categorized under the family Menispermaceae, completing its biological identity.
| 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 wattii exhibits a diverse geographic range that spans across multiple climatic zones in Asia. In temperate regions, the species is notably distributed throughout China, including the South-Central areas. Its presence extends further into tropical landscapes, specifically across the Indian Subcontinent. Within these warm habitats, the plant can be found thriving in the Assam region. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to varying environmental conditions across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Cyclea wattii produces wattisine A, a compound that demonstrates significant cytotoxic activities against specific cancer cell lines. This plant-derived alkaloid effectively treats HCT-8 cells with an IC50 value of 1.74 microM. Additionally, the same substance shows therapeutic potential by treating Bel-7402 cells with an IC50 value of 7.29 microM. These findings highlight the medicinal capacity of the alkaloids isolated from the roots of Cyclea wattii. The targeted activity against both HCT-8 and Bel-7402 underscores the plant's pharmacological relevance.
Preparations
Parts used
Cyclea wattii serves as a significant botanical source for the discovery of specialized chemical compounds. Researchers have successfully isolated two new curine-type bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids, known as wattisines A and B, specifically from the plant's roots. Through the use of NMR and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, the complex structures of these alkaloids were clearly established. Furthermore, single-crystal X-ray diffraction and circular dichroism spectra were employed to determine their absolute configurations. These root-derived compounds have also demonstrated notable cytotoxic activities against various cancer cell lines in vitro.