Larix gmelinii var. olgensis
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis is a botanical species that holds significant interest in the field of pharmacological research. Scientific investigations have focused on its roots and bark preparations to uncover various therapeutic potential. The plant contains key bioactive chemicals, including (+)-isolariciresinol, (+)-lariciresinol, (-)-secoisolariciresinol, and beta-sitosterol. These compounds are being studied for their specific biological activities, particularly regarding their antitumor effects. Furthermore, research suggests that extracts from this plant may play a role in addressing conditions related to inflammation.
- Synonyms
- Larix Dahurica Var. Koreana · Larix Olgensis Var. Koreana · 15 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Pinaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis is a specialized botanical variety known by several distinct regional names. In many English-speaking contexts, it is referred to as the Olga Bay Larch or the Olgan Larch. German speakers may identify this species as the Olgabuchtlärche or the ussurilärk. Meanwhile, the name smrekovec Gmelinov oľžský serves as a specific designation in other linguistic traditions. These diverse common names reflect the wide geographical reach and varied cultural recognition of this unique larch.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis is a botanical taxon that is frequently identified by several different scientific names due to its complex taxonomic history. It is closely linked to Larix amurensis, which serves as one of its recognized synonyms. Researchers also classify this variety under names such as Larix dahurica f. viridis and Larix dahurica var. koreana. Furthermore, the plant is identified in various studies as Larix gmelinii f. viridis. Finally, the classification Larix gmelinii subsp. olgensis provides another synonymous designation for this specific group.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, reflecting its fundamental biological structure. The species further belongs to the order Pinales, a group known for its distinct woody characteristics. It is nested within the Pinaceae family, which links it to many other well-known coniferous trees. Finally, this plant is identified by its specific genus, Larix, which defines its unique botanical lineage.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Pinidae |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Larix |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis exhibits a broad geographic range that spans across several distinct regions of the world. In Asia, this variety is widely distributed throughout temperate zones, including China, Manchuria, and Korea. Its presence extends further into the Russian Far East, specifically within the Primorye region. Interestingly, the plant also makes its way into Europe, establishing itself in the northern territories. Specifically, it can be found thriving in the landscapes of both Denmark and Sweden.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis exhibits promising therapeutic potential due to its demonstrated antitumor activity. Recent chemical investigations into the bark of related varieties have successfully isolated several unique lignans. Among these compounds, specifically (+)-lariciresinol 9'-p-coumarate, has shown a capacity to inhibit various cancer cell lines. Experimental data indicates weak inhibitory effects against K562, SHG44, HCT-8, A549, and PC-3M tumor cells. These findings suggest that the phytochemical constituents of this plant species warrant further study for potential anticancer applications.
Compounds
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis serves as a rich source of diverse chemical constituents, particularly within its bark. Scientific analysis has identified several key compounds in the plant, including the sterol beta-sitosterol and the diterpene isopimaric acid. The plant also contains significant lignans such as lariciresinol and isolariciresinol. Furthermore, the presence of ehletianol C has been confirmed through detailed spectroscopic studies. These findings highlight the complex phytochemical profile inherent to this specific variety of larch.
Conditions
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis, through its extracted component taxifolin, effectively treats CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by regulating specific signaling pathways. The plant also works to treat CCl4-induced oxidative stress, providing a protective effect against chemical damage. Additionally, it treats cell apoptosis by inhibiting the Bcl-2/Bax pathway and preventing hepatocyte death. The extract further treats inflammation by reversing the increased expression of pro-inflammatory markers like IL-6 and TNF-α. Together, these combined actions demonstrate the plant's significant potential as a hepatoprotective agent.
Preparations
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis, specifically identified in the provided studies as Larix olgensis var. koreana, is prepared as bark for chemical analysis. Researchers utilize this bark to isolate various bioactive compounds through silica gel column chromatography. The extraction process from the bark has successfully identified eight distinct compounds, including isopimaric acid and larixol. Furthermore, the bark serves as a source for six new lignans and seven known lignan structures. These isolated components from the bark even demonstrate inhibitory effects against several specific tumor cell lines.
Parts used
Larix gmelinii var. olgensis provides a valuable source of taxifolin, a bioactive dihydroflavone extracted specifically from its roots. This extracted compound has demonstrated significant potential in medical research due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activities. Recent studies highlight its ability to attenuate liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 by regulating critical signaling pathways like PI3K/AKT/mTOR and TGF-β1/Smads. By inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis and reducing the production of extracellular matrix, taxifolin acts as a powerful protective agent for hepatic tissue. Consequently, the root components of this plant species offer promising therapeutic pathways for treating liver-related pathologies.