Goniothalamus tapis

Goniothalamus tapis · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Goniothalamus tapis is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse therapeutic potential. Research focuses extensively on its medicinal activities, particularly its promising anticancer properties against various cell lines. To investigate these effects, scientists utilize multiple preparation methods, including the development of aqueous and ethanolic extracts. Furthermore, specialized hexane extracts (GUHE) are employed to isolate specific bioactive compounds within the plant. Understanding these various extracts is essential for unlocking the full pharmacological value of this species.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Goniothalamus Sumatranus · Goniothalamus Umbrosus
Common names
Not available
Family
Annonaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Synonyms

Goniothalamus tapis is a botanical species that is frequently associated with several different taxonomic designations. In many scientific records, it is recognized by its synonyms, including Goniothalamus sumatranus. Additionally, the plant is often referred to under the name Goniothalamus umbrosus in various studies. These overlapping names highlight the complex historical classification often encountered within the genus. Understanding these relationships is essential for researchers seeking to accurately identify the species in the field.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Goniothalamus tapis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the vascular plants. It falls into the order Magnoliales, a group known for its distinct evolutionary lineage. Furthermore, the plant is a member of the family Annonaceae, which is characterized by specific floral traits. Finally, it is situated within the genus Goniothalamus, defining its unique botanical identity.

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 tapis is a plant species widely distributed across the diverse landscapes of the tropical Asian region. Its presence can be found throughout the lush environments of Indo-China, including parts of Thailand. The species also extends into the Malesia region, making a significant footprint within the Malay Peninsula. Furthermore, its natural habitat reaches into the island of Sumatera, highlighting its broad geographical range. This widespread distribution underscores the plant's ability to thrive within various tropical ecosystems.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Goniothalamus tapis is a self-supporting tree species characterized by its sturdy and upright growth form. It typically reaches a maximum height of 10 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. This elegant structure allows the plant to establish a significant presence within its forest ecosystem.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Goniothalamus tapis belongs to a genus of plants that holds significant promise in the field of oncology due to its observed anticancer activities. Research into closely related species, such as Goniothalamus umbrosus, has demonstrated a remarkable ability to induce targeted apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells. Specifically, extracts from these plants can modulate key genetic markers by upregulating the proapoptotic Bax gene while simultaneously downregulating the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 gene. This mechanism effectively triggers caspase-3 activity, leading to the programmed death of malignant cells through the mitochondrial pathway. Such selective cytotoxicity suggests that these botanical derivatives could serve as highly effective therapeutic agents with minimal impact on healthy human cells.

Compounds

Conditions

Goniothalamus tapis demonstrates significant therapeutic potential across various biological targets as indicated by recent research. This plant species effectively treats the HSC-3 cell line by inducing apoptosis through the activation of specific mitochondrial pathways. Furthermore, its medicinal properties allow it to treat oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) by regulating proapoptotic and antiapoptotic gene expressions. Beyond oncology, the plant also exhibits efficacy in treating T. evansi, which is the causative agent of surra. These diverse applications highlight the plant's versatility as both an anticancer and antitrypanosomal agent.

Preparations

Goniothalamus tapis is prepared as aqueous and ethanolic extracts to study its biological activities. These specific preparations are utilized to evaluate the plant's medicinal potential in various scientific screenings. Furthermore, the plant is also prepared as a hexane extract, commonly referred to as GUHE. This GUHE preparation is specifically investigated for its ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cell lines. Through these different extraction methods, the diverse therapeutic properties of the species are explored.

Parts used