Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is a botanical species of significant pharmacological interest due to its diverse bioactive properties. Research focusing on the ethanol extracts of its leaves has revealed a rich profile of chemical constituents, including flavonoids, anthraquinones, and specific lignans such as Austrobailignan 1 and 2. These crude extracts and fractions have demonstrated potent biological activities, most notably antitumor and cytotoxic effects. Furthermore, the plant's compounds show the ability to interact with critical biological targets, including lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, xanthine oxidase, and ras oncogenes. Consequently, this subspecies serves as a promising subject for investigating new therapeutic agents derived from natural sources.
- Synonyms
- Koelreuteria Henryi · Koelreuteria Formosana
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is a striking ornamental plant widely recognized by several distinct names across different regions. In many English-speaking areas, it is affectionately known as the Flamegold or the Flamegold Rain Tree due to its vibrant appearance. This beautiful species also holds significant cultural and linguistic identity in East Asia, where it is referred to as タイワンモクゲンジ in Japan. Similarly, it is commonly identified as 台灣欒樹 in Taiwan, reflecting its regional importance. Understanding these various common names helps gardeners and botanists alike identify this spectacular tree throughout the world.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is a distinct botanical taxon that is often identified through various taxonomic designations. In many botanical records, this specific subspecies is recognized by the synonym Koelreuteria formosana. Furthermore, researchers and horticulturalists may also encounter it listed under the synonym Koelreuteria henryi. These varying names reflect the complex historical classification of the plant within different scientific contexts. Understanding these relationships is essential for ensuring accurate identification in both academic and practical gardening settings.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is a distinct botanical entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. This subspecies further resides in the order Sapindales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. It is a member of the Sapindaceae family, which links it to many other unique flowering plants. Ultimately, it is identified by its specific genus, Koelreuteria, marking its place in the natural world.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Koelreuteria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is a versatile plant with a geographic reach that extends across multiple continents. Its native roots can be traced back to the temperate regions of Eastern Asia, specifically within Taiwan. Beyond its original habitat, the subspecies has successfully established itself throughout various parts of North America. It is commonly found across the South-Central United States in Texas, as well as throughout the Southeastern states. Specifically, its presence is noted in the warm landscapes of Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana has emerged as a subject of significant pharmacological interest due to its potential medicinal properties. Research indicates that this specific subspecies possesses notable antitumor activity, making it a candidate for further anticancer drug discovery. Additionally, the plant exhibits cytotoxic effects that may contribute to its therapeutic profile in managing malignant cell transformations. These biological activities suggest that the chemical constituents within the species could play a role in inhibiting critical oncogene signal transduction. Consequently, continued investigation into its molecular mechanisms remains essential for advancing natural product-based oncology treatments.
Compounds
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana serves as a significant source of diverse bioactive chemical compounds. Detailed chemical investigations have revealed that this plant contains specific cyclolignans, namely austrobailignan 1, austrobailignan 2, and koelreuterin 1. In addition to these lignans, the plant's profile includes important classes of compounds such as anthraquinone and flavonoid. These constituents are of particular interest due to their potential roles in signal transduction inhibition and medicinal applications. Such a rich chemical composition highlights the plant's importance in the study of natural oncogene signal transduction inhibitors.
Conditions
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana exhibits significant biological potential through its various therapeutic properties. The plant demonstrates effectiveness in treating DPPH-scavenging activities and hydroxyl-scavenging activities. Furthermore, it shows a capacity to treat cytotoxicity within biological systems. The plant is also noted for its ability to treat lipoxygenase. Finally, Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana treats protein-tyrosine kinase (PTK) inhibitory activity.
Preparations
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is prepared as EtOH extract in various scientific investigations. This plant is also prepared as crude extracts to facilitate the study of its biological properties. Researchers have further processed the specimen where Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is prepared as crude fractions for detailed analysis. Additionally, Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is prepared as ethanol extracts of leaves to evaluate its antioxidant potential. These specific preparation methods allow for the isolation of active constituents within the species.
Parts used
Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana is a notable indigenous Taiwanese plant whose leaves serve as a primary source for bioactive research. In recent pharmacological studies, ethanol extracts derived specifically from these leaves have been investigated for their significant antioxidant potential. Researchers utilized various assays to evaluate how these leaf extracts interact with DPPH, hydroxyl, and superoxide radicals. The investigation also focused on the plants' ability to induce heme oxygenase-1, a key factor in addressing cardiovascular disorders. Ultimately, these findings suggest that the leaf constituents of such plants are promising candidates for the development of new natural antioxidants.