Diospyros crassiflora
Diospyros crassiflora · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Diospyros crassiflora is a remarkable botanical species currently being investigated for its diverse pharmacological potential. Research indicates that this plant possesses significant antibacterial and anthelmintic properties, making it valuable for combating various pathogens. Furthermore, its bioactive profile includes anti-HIV activities that offer promise in the fight against viral infections. A key chemical constituent identified in the plant is plumbagin, which plays a crucial role in its medicinal efficacy. Most notably, the plant demonstrates potent cytotoxic effects that are being studied for their ability to target cancer cells.
- Synonyms
- Diospyros Evila · Diospyros Incarnata · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Ebenaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Diospyros crassiflora is a significant tree species known throughout various regions by a variety of descriptive names. It is widely recognized by the common names African Ebony Wood and Benin ebony, highlighting its geographic and material importance. In many contexts, it is simply referred to as Ebony, though its specific identity is often celebrated through regional terminology. In French-speaking areas, it is famously called ébenier véritable du Gabon, reflecting its prestigious status in the timber industry. Furthermore, the plant is also known locally as evila, showcasing the diverse linguistic heritage associated with this valuable species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Diospyros crassiflora is a botanical species that has been classified under several different names throughout history. Scientific literature recognizes Diospyros ampullacea as a formal synonym for this particular plant. Similarly, the name Diospyros evila has been used to describe the same biological entity. Research also identifies Diospyros incarnata as another synonymous designation within the same taxonomic group. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for maintaining accuracy in botanical studies and plant identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Diospyros crassiflora is a remarkable biological specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Ericales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Ebenaceae family, it shares characteristics with other notable woody plants. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its placement within the genus Diospyros.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ebenaceae |
| Genus | Diospyros |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Diospyros crassiflora is a botanical species with a broad geographical footprint across the African continent. Its primary distribution spans across West Tropical Africa, specifically within the borders of Nigeria. The plant further extends its reach into West-Central Tropical Africa, where it is commonly found in Cameroon and the Central African Republic. Additionally, its presence is well-established throughout the Congo region and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This widespread occurrence highlights the species' importance within these diverse tropical ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Diospyros crassiflora is a robust tree characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This species typically reaches a significant stature within its natural habitat. While it can grow to a maximum height of approximately 17.5 meters, some specimens may reach up to 18.28822238 meters. Such impressive dimensions allow it to stand prominently among the surrounding vegetation.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Diospyros crassiflora contains plumbagin, a compound that has demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity against various cancer cell lines. During a pharmacogenomic study of Cameroonian traditional medicines, this plant was identified as a source of one of the most potent natural products for potential cancer therapy. Detailed analysis revealed that the activity of plumbagin is closely linked to specific mRNA expression profiles within tested cell lines. These profiles suggest that the compound primarily affects enzymatic activities and the structural constituents of ribosomes. This research marks a major milestone in Sub-Saharan Africa by connecting traditional herbal knowledge with advanced mechanistic cancer analysis.
Compounds
Diospyros crassiflora is recognized as a significant medicinal plant within the context of Cameroonian traditional herbal medicine. Research into its chemical properties has identified that this species contains the cytotoxic compound plumbagin. By utilizing the National Cancer Institute database, scientists have been able to evaluate the effectiveness of such natural products against various cancer cell lines. Detailed pharmacogenomic profiling revealed that the activity of plumbagin is closely linked to enzymatic processes and the structural constituents of ribosomes. This investigation marks a vital step in connecting traditional African botanical knowledge with advanced mechanistic analysis for potential cancer therapies.
Conditions
Diospyros crassiflora contains plumbagin, a compound identified for its significant cytotoxic activity against various cancer cell lines. Research utilizing the National Cancer Institute database helped establish this plant as a source of potential anti-cancer agents. Through pharmacogenomic profiling, the activity of plumbagin derived from this species was linked to specific cellular processes. Specifically, the compound's impact is associated with enzymatic activity and the structural constituents of ribosomes. This investigation provides a mechanistic connection between the traditional use of Diospyros crassiflora and its potential for cancer therapy.