Lotus japonicus
Lotus japonicus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lotus japonicus is a well-studied model legume frequently utilized in plant biology and pharmaceutical research. Recent investigations have focused on the medicinal potential of its chemical constituents, specifically exploring their biological activities. Researchers have utilized 70% ethanol extracts to isolate various bioactive compounds from the plant. These specialized preparations are being rigorously tested for their promising antitumor properties. This ongoing study highlights the potential of Lotus japonicus as a source for novel cancer-fighting agents.
- Synonyms
- Lotus Corniculatus Var. Japonicus · Lotus Corniculatus Subsp. Japonicus · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Lotus japonicus is a fascinating plant known by various regional names that reflect its diverse botanical identity. In certain contexts, it is referred to by the common name ミヤコグサ, highlighting its specific cultural or local significance. It also carries the designation 光葉百脈根, a name that evokes its unique physical characteristics. Additionally, the plant is associated with the name 벌노랑이 in different linguistic traditions. These varied names illustrate the rich linguistic landscape surrounding this single species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lotus japonicus is a plant species that has been classified under several different taxonomic synonyms throughout its study. Scientific records indicate that it is closely linked to Lotus corniculatus f. hirtellus. Furthermore, the plant is recognized as having a relationship with Lotus corniculatus f. semibarbatus. It is also considered a synonym for Lotus corniculatus subsp. japonicus within various botanical frameworks. Finally, the species is identified as Lotus corniculatus var. japonicus, reflecting its complex naming history.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lotus japonicus belongs to the kingdom Plantae, representing a fundamental branch of the living world. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Fabales, a group known for its distinct biological traits. This plant is a prominent member of the family Fabaceae, showcasing the characteristics of legumes. Ultimately, its botanical identity is defined by its placement within the genus Lotus.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lotus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lotus japonicus is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the Asia-Temperate region. Its geographical presence is notably concentrated within Eastern Asia, spanning several key locations. Specifically, the species can be found growing in Japan and across the Korean Peninsula. Its range further extends to the Nansei-shoto islands and the territory of Taiwan. This distribution pattern highlights the plant's significant presence within the diverse ecosystems of Eastern Asia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Lotus japonicus var. corniculatus was identified as one of the promising wild plants during a comparative study on antitumor activities. When tested at a concentration of 3 mg/mL, its ethanol extract successfully inhibited the viability of tumor cells by 31.98%. This performance places it among a select group of plants that demonstrated significant potential in the P388D1 macrophage cell line. The research highlighted that only a small fraction of the tested wild plants, including this species, showed such noteworthy inhibitory effects. Consequently, these findings suggest that the plant could serve as a foundation for developing new, effective antitumor agents.
Compounds
Conditions
Lotus japonicus responds to 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid by experiencing a reduction in its total nodule number. The application of inhibitors of ethylene synthesis or its physiological function serves to enhance nodulation within this species. Treatment with methyl jasmonate significantly induces the expression of the LjABCG1 gene in the plant. Additionally, the species can be engineered to be resistant to phosphinothricin (PPT) through the use of the bar gene as a selectable marker. While related species like Lotus corniculatus var. japonicus show potential in inhibiting tumor cell viability, the abstracts specifically detail these distinct chemical and biological interactions for Lotus japonicus.
Preparations
Lotus japonicus is prepared as 70% ethanol extracts according to the provided research data. This specific preparation method was utilized to test the plant's biological activity against tumor cell lines. In the study, the extract of Lotus corniculatus var. japonicus demonstrated a significant ability to inhibit cell viability. Specifically, at a concentration of 3 mg/mL, it achieved an inhibition rate of 31.98%. These findings position the processed plant as a potential candidate for further antitumor investigation.