Gymnosporia emarginata
Gymnosporia emarginata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Gymnosporia emarginata is a notable botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse pharmacological profile. Research into this plant has highlighted its impressive antitumor activities, offering potential pathways for cancer treatment. Within its chemical makeup, researchers have identified specialized compounds such as Emarginatine B. Furthermore, the presence of MAYTANSINE underscores the plant's importance in the field of medicinal chemistry. Understanding these bioactive constituents is essential for unlocking the therapeutic potential of this unique species.
- Synonyms
- Gymnosporia Emarginata Var. Coromandelica · Maytenus Emarginata · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Celastraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Gymnosporia emarginata is a distinctive plant species widely recognized by its local common name, 蘭嶼裸實. Found within specific ecological niches, this plant plays a unique role in its native habitat's biological community. Its presence is often a key indicator of the environmental health and biodiversity of the regions where it thrives. Understanding its botanical characteristics helps researchers better appreciate the complex web of life in its natural setting. Through study, we gain deeper insight into how this species interacts with the surrounding flora and fauna.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Gymnosporia emarginata is a species known to be associated with several different botanical names within scientific literature. It is recognized by the synonyms Catha emarginata and Celastrus emarginatus, reflecting various historical classifications. The plant has also been identified under the name Celastrus semiarillatus in certain contexts. Furthermore, its taxonomic history includes links to Elaeodendron horizontale. Finally, the variety Gymnosporia emarginata var. coromandelica is officially recognized as a synonym within this group.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Gymnosporia emarginata is a fascinating 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 Celastrales, showcasing its specific evolutionary path. This plant is a member of the family Celastraceae, which helps define its unique biological characteristics. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Gymnosporia, completing its detailed scientific identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Gymnosporia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Gymnosporia emarginata is a plant species widely distributed across the tropical regions of Asia. Its natural range encompasses the vast landscapes of the Indian Subcontinent, including widespread presence throughout India. The species also thrives within the specific ecological conditions found in Sri Lanka. Moving further into the Malesia region, it can be identified growing in areas such as Malaya. This broad geographical footprint highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse tropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Gymnosporia emarginata is a self-supporting shrub characterized by its hardy and resilient growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 4 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. Its compact structure allows it to maintain a stable presence within its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Gymnosporia emarginata, also known as Maytenus emarginata, has demonstrated significant potential in the development of antitumor agents. Researchers have successfully isolated emarginatine B, a novel and potent sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloid, from this plant species. This specific compound has shown remarkable cytotoxic activity against human KB cells, achieving an ED50 of 0.4 micrograms/ml. Through advanced NMR studies and spectral correlations, scientists have been able to elucidate its complex chemical structure. These findings highlight the medicinal importance of the plant in the ongoing search for effective cancer treatments.
Compounds
Gymnosporia emarginata serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds with potential medicinal applications. Research has successfully isolated the novel sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloid known as emarginatine B from this plant species. In addition to this discovery, the plant also contains the important antitumor agent maytansine. Emarginatine B has demonstrated potent cytotoxicity against human KB cells during laboratory testing. These chemical relationships highlight the plant's importance in the ongoing search for new anticancer therapeutic agents.
Conditions
Gymnosporia emarginata provides the source for emarginatine B, a novel sesquiterpene pyridine alkaloid. This specific compound demonstrates potent cytotoxicity when applied to human KB cells. Research indicates that the effective dose for this activity is an ED50 of 0.4 micrograms/ml. The chemical structure of this antitumor agent is identified as a 9-benzoate and C-8 epimer of emarginatine A. These findings highlight the plant's capacity to produce bioactive molecules capable of treating human cancer cell lines.