Goniothalamus cheliensis

Goniothalamus cheliensis · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Goniothalamus cheliensis is a botanical species from which unique bioactive compounds have been isolated. Researchers have specifically focused on the root barks of this plant to extract significant chemical constituents. Among these identified substances are the noteworthy compounds Cheliensisin A and GC-51. Scientific investigations have demonstrated that these preparations can effectively induce apoptosis within KB cells. Consequently, the root extracts of this plant show great potential for further pharmacological study in cancer research.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Not available
Common names
Not available
Family
Annonaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Root

Classification

Common Names

Goniothalamus cheliensis is a distinctive botanical species known locally by its common name, 景洪哥纳香. This plant belongs to a fascinating genus often recognized for its unique aromatic qualities and structural elegance. Within its regional ecosystem, it plays a specific role that connects it to the local flora and traditional knowledge. Understanding its nomenclature helps researchers and enthusiasts bridge the gap between scientific classification and cultural identity. Consequently, documenting these naming relationships is essential for preserving the botanical heritage of its native habitat.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Taxonomy

Goniothalamus cheliensis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the order Magnoliales, reflecting its evolutionary lineage. It is further categorized into the class Equisetopsida, which highlights its fundamental botanical characteristics. As a member of the genus Goniothalamus, it shares unique morphological traits with its close relatives. Finally, this plant is a distinguished representative of the Annonaceae family, showcasing the intricate biological relationships found in tropical flora.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Magnoliales
Family Annonaceae
Genus Goniothalamus

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Goniothalamus cheliensis is a plant species with a diverse geographical range spanning across several parts of Asia. Within the temperate regions, it can be found specifically in China and the South-Central provinces of the country. Its presence extends into the tropical landscapes of Indo-China, where it thrives in various environments. Specifically, the species is widely distributed throughout the lush terrains of Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to different ecological zones across the continent.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Goniothalamus cheliensis is a self-supporting tree that maintains a sturdy and independent structure within its habitat. This species reaches a maximum height of approximately 5 meters, making it a notable component of the understory. Its compact growth form allows it to thrive effectively in its specific ecological niche.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Goniothalamus cheliensis is a plant species of significant interest due to its unique chemical profile. From this plant, researchers have isolated a novel styryl-lactone known as cheliensisin A. This specific compound is also referred to in scientific studies as GC-51. Investigations have shown that GC-51 possesses potent properties that can inhibit the proliferation of human promyelocytic leukemia cells. Ultimately, the presence of cheliensisin A within Goniothalamus cheliensis offers a promising pathway for studying targeted apoptosis in cancer research.

Conditions

Goniothalamus cheliensis provides bioactive compounds that demonstrate significant cytotoxicity against several cancer cell lines. Specifically, derivatives such as goniolactone B exhibit potent effects in treating A2780, HCT-8, and KB cells. The plant also yields cheliensisin A, which effectively treats human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells by inhibiting their proliferation. This compound further treats the condition by successfully inducing apoptosis within these HL-60 cells. Through the downregulation of Bcl-2 expression and activation of caspase-3, the extracts from this plant drive the process of apoptosis.

Preparations

Goniothalamus cheliensis is prepared as root barks to facilitate the isolation of specific chemical compounds. These root barks serve as the source for three new bis-styryllactone analogues known as goniolactones G-I (1-3). Researchers utilize these prepared barks to extract bioactive substances for further scientific study. Through extensive spectroscopic investigation, the structures of the molecules derived from these barks are successfully established. This specific preparation method is essential for identifying the unique chemical properties found within the plant.

Parts used

Goniothalamus cheliensis serves as a rich source of unique chemical compounds, particularly when examining its root structures. Researchers have successfully isolated six new styrylpyrone derivatives, known as goniolactones A-F, from the roots of this plant. Furthermore, the root barks of the species have yielded three additional bis-styryllactone analogues identified as goniolactones G-I. Detailed spectroscopic investigations and X-ray crystallography were utilized to elucidate the complex structures and stereochemistry of these molecules. Notably, the compound goniolactone B has demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against several cancer cell lines, highlighting the medicinal potential found within the plant's roots.