Dioscorea cirrhosa
Dioscorea cirrhosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dioscorea cirrhosa is a plant species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its unique biochemical properties. Recent studies have focused on the water fraction derived from this plant (WF) to evaluate its therapeutic potential. Research indicates that this specific preparation exhibits notable antioxidant activities within biological systems. These properties are particularly important for mitigating oxidative stress and preventing cellular oxidative damage. Furthermore, the extract shows promise in regulating apoptosis, offering a potential pathway for managing various disease states.
- Synonyms
- Dioscorea Intempestiva · Dioscorea Matsudae · 6 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Dioscoreaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Dioscorea cirrhosa is a unique plant known by several distinct common names across different regions. In many English-speaking contexts, it is frequently referred to as the Shoulang Yam. It is also commonly identified by the phonetic name shu liang. In Japan, the plant is recognized through various Japanese scripts, including the katakana forms そめものいも and ソメモノイモ. Finally, it is written in kanji as 染物芋, reflecting its traditional linguistic identity.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Dioscorea cirrhosa is a taxonomically complex species that encompasses several recognized synonyms within its botanical classification. This plant is frequently identified in scientific literature under alternative names such as Dioscorea angusta and Dioscorea bonnetii. Furthermore, researchers may encounter it recorded as Dioscorea camphorifolia or the specific variety Dioscorea cirrhosa var. cylindrica. The nomenclature also includes the synonym Dioscorea intempestiva, reflecting the various ways this species has been documented over time. Understanding these overlapping identities is essential for ensuring accuracy in botanical studies and plant identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dioscorea cirrhosa belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae, showcasing the vast complexity of the natural world. Within this expansive realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Dioscoreales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. It holds a specific place within the family Dioscoreaceae, highlighting its botanical connections. Ultimately, this species is identified by its membership in the genus Dioscorea.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dioscorea cirrhosa is a plant species primarily distributed across the temperate regions of Asia. Within China, its presence is widespread, spanning from the South-Central and Southeast provinces to the high altitudes of Tibet and the island of Hainan. The species also extends its reach into Eastern Asia, specifically inhabiting the Nansei-shoto islands. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to thrive in diverse environmental conditions across the continent. Consequently, understanding its habitat is essential for studying its ecological role in these various Asian landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dioscorea cirrhosa is a herbaceous plant characterized by its distinctive growth form. It possesses an obligatory climbing habit, allowing it to scale surrounding structures and vegetation to reach sunlight. This climbing vine can achieve a maximum height of approximately 10 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Dioscorea cirrhosa exhibits significant antioxidant activity that plays a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative damage. Research indicates that the water fraction of this plant can effectively mitigate oxidative stress in H9c2 cardiomyocytes induced by hydrogen peroxide. By scavenging reactive oxygen species and lowering malondialdehyde levels, the extract helps maintain cellular integrity. Furthermore, it enhances the activities of essential antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. These protective mechanisms ultimately work to improve mitochondrial function and inhibit the process of apoptosis in damaged cells.
Compounds
Conditions
Dioscorea cirrhosa, specifically in its water fraction form, demonstrates a significant ability to treat apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. The plant also effectively treats oxidative damage by decreasing levels of malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, it serves to treat oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase. These therapeutic actions are achieved through the regulation of protein expression and the protection of mitochondrial membrane potential. Ultimately, the plant protects myocardial cells by scavenging ROS and improving overall antioxidant capacity.
Preparations
Dioscorea cirrhosa is prepared as a water fraction (WF) to investigate its biological efficacy. This specific water fraction was utilized to study oxidative damage and apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. Research indicates that the WF treatment effectively increases cell viability while decreasing LDH leakage in these cells. By scavenging ROS and improving antioxidant capacity, the WF protects myocardial cells from H2O2-induced stress. Furthermore, the application of this water fraction regulates protein expression to inhibit the apoptotic process.