Lacistema pubescens
Lacistema pubescens · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lacistema pubescens is a botanical species of significant interest due to its diverse pharmacological potential. Recent studies have focused on its methanolic crude extract and various fractions, including the specific hexane fraction. Chemical analysis reveals the presence of bioactive compounds such as phytol and sitosterol within these preparations. These constituents contribute to the plant's notable antibacterial and antiproliferative activities. Consequently, exploring these methanolic extracts provides valuable insights into the plant's therapeutic applications.
- Synonyms
- Lacistema Ellipticum
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lacistemataceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Synonyms
Lacistema pubescens is a botanical species that is frequently identified by its alternative taxonomic designation. In various scientific records, this plant is also known by the synonym Lacistema ellipticum. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for researchers studying its specific classification. While the nomenclature may vary across different herbariums, both terms refer to the same biological entity. Recognizing this relationship ensures accuracy when documenting the plant's presence in diverse ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lacistema pubescens is a unique botanical specimen that belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further fits into the order Malpighiales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. The species is a core member of the genus Lacistema, which distinguishes it from other similar flora. Ultimately, this plant is nested within the specialized family Lacistemataceae, rounding out its complex scientific identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Lacistemataceae |
| Genus | Lacistema |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lacistema pubescens is widely distributed across the diverse landscapes of Southern America. In Brazil, this plant can be found thriving in the northern, northeastern, and southeastern regions. Its reach extends further into Northern South America, where it establishes itself within the unique environments of French Guiana. This broad geographic range highlights the species' adaptability to various tropical habitats. Consequently, understanding its presence across these specific territories is essential for studying its ecological role.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lacistema pubescens is a self-supporting plant that adopts a distinct tree-like growth form. This species can reach impressive proportions, with a maximum height of up to 20 meters. Its robust structure allows it to stand firmly within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Lacistema pubescens is an Amazonian medicinal plant that has long been utilized by indigenous communities in Brazil and Peru. Recent scientific investigations into its aerial parts have revealed significant biological potential, including notable antiproliferative activity against HL60 and Jurkat cells. The study also assessed the plant's antibacterial properties across seven different bacterial strains. While the overall antibacterial activity was found to be less significant, the methanolic extract and hexane fractions demonstrated clear inhibitory effects. These findings, along with the identification of compounds like phytol and sitosterol, highlight the complex pharmacological profile of this species.
Compounds
Lacistema pubescens is an Amazonian medicinal plant traditionally utilized by indigenous communities in Brazil and Peru. Recent chemical profiling of its methanolic extract and hexane fractions has revealed the presence of important bioactive compounds. Specifically, researchers identified that Lacistema pubescens contains phytol and sitosterol. These particular constituents are believed to play a significant role in the plant's observed antileishmanial and cytotoxic activities. Consequently, these findings highlight the potential therapeutic value of the plant's chemical composition.
Conditions
Lacistema pubescens demonstrates significant antibacterial activities against seven different bacteria strains. This Amazonian medicinal plant also exhibits potent antileishmanial activity against various Leishmania species. Furthermore, the plant shows antiproliferative activity against both HL60 and Jurkat cell lines. The extracts of the species also produce cytotoxicity in murine peritoneal macrophages. These diverse biological properties highlight the complex therapeutic potential of the plant's chemical profile.
Preparations
Lacistema pubescens is prepared as a methanolic crude extract and a methanolic extract to facilitate the study of its medicinal properties. Researchers also utilized various fractions derived from the plant to evaluate its biological activities. Specifically, the plant is prepared as a hexane fraction, which demonstrated significant antileishmanial effects. These different preparations, including the methanolic crude extract and various fractions, allowed for a detailed investigation into the plant's chemical profile. Ultimately, the study focused on the efficacy of these specific forms, such as the hexane fraction and methanolic extract, against several pathogens.