Kokoona ochracea

Kokoona ochracea · Accepted scientific name

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

Kokoona ochracea is a unique botanical species recognized for its specific phytochemical properties. Within its biological makeup, the plant contains the notable chemical compound known as salaspermic acid. Researchers often focus on the stem as a primary area of interest for studying this organism. Specifically, the stem bark is frequently utilized in various traditional or scientific preparations. Understanding these components is essential for exploring the full medicinal and chemical potential of the species.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Ardisia Ochracea
Common names
Not available
Family
Celastraceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Stem

Classification

Common Names

Kokoona ochracea is a plant recognized by a diverse array of local names across different regions. It is frequently referred to as Kayu Minyak or Layeng depending on the specific community. Some people also identify the species by the name Mata Ulat, highlighting its unique characteristics. Additionally, the plant is known as Repetik in certain areas, showcasing its linguistic variety. Finally, it is commonly called kayu gerit, underscoring the many ways this single species is identified.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Kokoona ochracea is a botanical species that is frequently identified by its taxonomic synonym, Ardisia ochracea. This nomenclatural link indicates that the plant has been classified under different names throughout its scientific history. Understanding this relationship is essential for researchers seeking accurate data within various herbarium records and databases. By recognizing both terms, botanists can ensure consistency when studying the plant's distribution and characteristics. Consequently, navigating these synonymous labels is a key step in mastering the complex taxonomy of the genus.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Kokoona ochracea is a unique botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further categorized into the order Celastrales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. This specific species is a member of the Celastraceae family, showcasing its distinct biological traits. Ultimately, it is defined by its placement within the genus Kokoona.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Celastrales
Family Celastraceae
Genus Kokoona

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Kokoona ochracea is a distinctive plant species with a broad presence across the tropical regions of Asia. Its natural distribution spans several key areas within the Malesia botanical zone, showcasing its adaptability to diverse rainforest environments. Specifically, this species can be found thriving in the lush landscapes of Borneo and throughout the Malaya peninsula. Additionally, its range extends eastward to include the diverse islands of the Philippines. This wide geographic footprint highlights the significant role the plant plays within the tropical ecosystems of Southeast Asia.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Kokoona ochracea is a self-supporting tree that grows with impressive structural stability. This species is characterized by its robust growth form, allowing it to reach significant proportions in its natural habitat. At its peak, the tree can achieve a maximum height of 40 meters.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Kokoona ochracea serves as a significant source of unique chemical compounds, including the specific constituent known as salaspermic acid. Researchers have successfully isolated this acid from the stem bark of the plant alongside various quinone-methide triterpenes. While other substances found in the plant demonstrated strong cytotoxicity against leukemia and human cancer cell lines, salaspermic acid did not show activity in those specific investigations. To further understand its structure, scientists utilized 1D and 2D NMR spectral techniques to accomplish precise 13C-NMR assignments. This detailed chemical profiling highlights the complex secondary metabolites present within the Kokoona ochracea species.

Conditions

Kokoona ochracea contains quinone-methide triterpenes that demonstrate significant therapeutic potential against specific malignancies. These isolated compounds exhibit strong in vitro cytotoxicity against P-388 murine lymphocytic leukemia cells. Furthermore, the triterpenes derived from the plant's stem bark effectively treat a diverse panel of human cancer cell lines. While these specific constituents show potent activity, other components like salaspermic acid do not show activity across all tested lines. Ultimately, the chemical profile of Kokoona ochracea provides bioactive agents capable of targeting both murine and human cancerous cells.

Preparations

Kokoona ochracea is prepared as stem bark for the isolation of various bioactive compounds. Researchers have successfully extracted new lupane lactones, such as ochraceolide D and ochraceolide E, specifically from this plant part. Additionally, the stem bark serves as the source for quinone-methide triterpenes and salaspermic acid. These extracted substances undergo structural elucidation using advanced spectroscopic methods to understand their chemical properties. The utilization of the stem bark allows for the evaluation of these compounds against various human cancer cell lines.

Parts used

Kokoona ochracea is a notable member of the Celastraceae family that serves as a rich source of diverse chemical compounds. Scientific investigations have focused specifically on the plant's stem bark to isolate various bioactive substances. Researchers have successfully extracted lupane lactones, such as ochraceolide D, which demonstrates significant cytotoxic activity against human glioblastoma cells. Furthermore, the stem bark contains quinone-methide triterpenes and salaspermic acid that exhibit varying levels of biological impact. These findings highlight the importance of studying the specific anatomical parts of the plant for potential medicinal applications.