Dillenia suffruticosa
Dillenia suffruticosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dillenia suffruticosa is a versatile plant species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, anthelmintic, and anti-HIV properties. Recent studies have specifically focused on its potential anticancer effects, particularly through the examination of dichloromethane and methanol extracts. Research indicates that extracts from the root contain potent bioactive compounds such as betulinic acid, lupeol, and various triterpenoids. These chemical constituents play a crucial role in inducing apoptosis within cancer cells, showing particular promise in studies involving MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. Consequently, this plant represents a valuable natural resource in the ongoing search for effective therapeutic agents against malignancy.
- Synonyms
- Wormia Burbidgei · Wormia Suffruticosa · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Dilleniaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Dillenia suffruticosa is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional and international names. In various local contexts, it is frequently referred to as Bunga Simpur or Simpoh Air. Some botanical circles also recognize it by the name malakandillenia to distinguish its specific characteristics. Its linguistic reach extends globally, appearing as Дилления кустарниковая in Cyrillic script and 黃花第倫桃 in Chinese. This variety of nomenclature highlights the widespread presence and cultural significance of the species across different parts of the world.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Dillenia suffruticosa is a botanical species that has been documented under several different scientific names throughout history. Taxonomists have frequently applied the synonym Dillenia burbidgei to describe this particular plant. Furthermore, it is recognized by the botanical variation known as Dillenia suffruticosa var. borneensis. The species is also closely linked to various classifications within the genus Wormia, including Wormia burbidgei and Wormia revoluta. Finally, the name Wormia subsessilis serves as another synonymous designation for this complex organism.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dillenia suffruticosa belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae, showcasing the diverse life forms found within the botanical world. This specific species is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place within a significant group of vascular plants. Within this hierarchy, it is organized under the order Dilleniales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. The plant is a member of the genus Dillenia, a designation that highlights its unique structural characteristics. Finally, it is situated within the family Dilleniaceae, completing its comprehensive biological profile.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dilleniales |
| Family | Dilleniaceae |
| Genus | Dillenia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dillenia suffruticosa maintains a broad and diverse geographic footprint across several continents. Its presence is noted in Africa, specifically within the Western Indian Ocean and the Seychelles. Within the tropical regions of Asia, the species is widely distributed throughout the Indian Subcontinent, including India and Sri Lanka. The plant also thrives across Indo-China, with established populations in Cambodia. Furthermore, its range extends into Malesia, where it can be found growing in Borneo.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dillenia suffruticosa is a self-supporting shrub that establishes a sturdy presence in its natural habitat. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 7.5 meters as it grows. Its distinctive form makes it a notable feature within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Dillenia suffruticosa stands out as a significant plant species identified during antimicrobial screenings of traditional medicinal flora in Perak, Peninsular Malaysia. Research involving methanol extracts from leaves, barks, and roots revealed that this plant possesses a remarkable biological profile. Specifically, it demonstrates potent antibacterial activity against various tested microorganisms. Additionally, the species exhibits strong antifungal properties, making it a versatile candidate for natural medicine. Consequently, Dillenia suffruticosa is recognized among a select group of plants that display the broadest spectrum of antimicrobial activity.
Compounds
Dillenia suffruticosa is a highly valued medicinal plant known for its diverse array of bioactive phytochemicals. Research indicates that its root metabolome is significantly characterized by triterpenoids such as betulinic acid and lupeol. Beyond these compounds, the plant contains various other essential elements including eugenol and linoleic acid. Furthermore, the presence of catechin contributes to its complex chemical profile and therapeutic potential. These diverse constituents support the plant's recognized roles in both antioxidant activities and anticancer treatments.
Conditions
Dillenia suffruticosa is traditionally utilized for the treatment of cancerous growth, including breast cancer. Scientific studies demonstrate that its dichloromethane root extract specifically treats MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells. This treatment works by inducing apoptosis within the MDA-MB-231 cells to promote programmed cell death. Furthermore, the plant extract effectively treats the cell cycle by inducing G2/M phase cell cycle arrest. Through these biological mechanisms, Dillenia suffruticosa shows significant potential in the therapeutic management of these specific cancer cells.
Preparations
Dillenia suffruticosa is prepared as a dichloromethane root extract to investigate its ability to induce apoptosis in triple-negative breast cancer cells. This specific root extract was studied for its cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, and potential to treat MDA-MB-231 cells via mitochondrial pathways. Additionally, Dillenia suffruticosa is prepared as methanol extracts from its leaves, barks, and roots for antimicrobial screening purposes. These methanol extracts were evaluated as part of a study on traditional medicinal plants in Perak, Malaysia. Through these different preparation methods, the plant demonstrates both anticancer and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities.
Parts used
Dillenia suffruticosa is a medicinal plant native to Southeast Asia that holds significant potential for modern cancer therapeutics. Recent scientific investigations have focused specifically on the plant's root, which contains a rich metabolome dominated by triterpenoids. Research indicates that dichloromethane extracts derived from these roots can induce apoptosis and oxidative stress in triple-negative breast cancer cells. Key bioactive compounds identified within the root, such as betulinic acid, appear to drive this cytotoxic activity by modulating critical signaling pathways. Consequently, the specialized metabolism found in the roots of this species provides a promising foundation for the discovery of new plant-derived anticancer drugs.