Matayba guianensis
Matayba guianensis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Matayba guianensis is a botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its diverse therapeutic potential. Recent pharmacological studies have focused heavily on its impressive anticancer and cytotoxic activities. Researchers are particularly interested in the bioactive compounds found within its essential oils. These extracts serve as a primary method for preparing concentrated forms of the plant's medicinal properties. Consequently, exploring this species offers promising new pathways for developing advanced cancer treatments.
- Synonyms
- Talisia Prancei · Cupania Micrantha · 8 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Matayba guianensis is a botanical species known by a diverse array of regional names. It is frequently referred to as Atou-aou in certain areas, reflecting its local cultural significance. Depending on the specific geographic location, you may also encounter it called Batabaíba. Other common identifiers for this plant include Caboatá-branco and the variations Camboatá or Camboatã. These multiple monikers highlight the rich linguistic diversity associated with the species across different territories.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Matayba guianensis is a botanical species known to be associated with several distinct taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this plant is frequently identified by the names Cupania euphoriifolia and Cupania laxiflora. Researchers also recognize it under the alternative designation of Cupania micrantha. Furthermore, the species has been cataloged in historical records as Ephielis fraxinea and Ephielis guianensis. Understanding these varied names is essential for accurate identification and consistent communication in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Matayba guianensis is a distinctive biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further organized into the order Sapindales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. The plant is a member of the Sapindaceae family, which links it to a diverse group of related species. Finally, its taxonomic identity is solidified by its placement within the genus Matayba.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Matayba |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Matayba guianensis is a botanical species with a widespread distribution throughout much of South America. It is particularly prevalent across the vast landscapes of Brazil, where it can be found in various ecological zones. The plant thrives in the northern reaches of the country, extending its presence into the Northeast region as well. Its habitat also spans the diverse terrains of Brazil's South, Southeast, and West-Central territories. This extensive range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to the many different environments found within the Brazilian continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Matayba guianensis is a self-supporting tree that stands as a robust feature of its ecosystem. This species typically achieves a height of up to 12 meters under standard conditions. However, under optimal environmental circumstances, it can reach a maximum height of 15 meters. Its sturdy growth form ensures it remains a stable and prominent presence within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Matayba guianensis has emerged as a significant subject of interest due to its potent biological properties found in essential oils from the Brazilian Cerrado and Pantanal. Research indicates that this plant species possesses notable cytotoxic activity, demonstrating a capacity to inhibit the growth of various malignant cells. Specifically, the essential oils derived from the plant exhibited significant anticancer activity against skin, breast, and brain cancer cell lines. These findings highlight the plant's ability to target multiple types of tumors during laboratory testing. Ultimately, the therapeutic potential of Matayba guianensis suggests it could serve as a promising foundation for future anticancer drug development.
Compounds
Conditions
Matayba guianensis essential oils demonstrate significant anticancer activity across multiple cancer cell lines. Specifically, the plant shows the ability to treat brain cancer by inhibiting the growth of U251 cells. It also exhibits therapeutic potential in treating breast cancer through its effect on MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, the essential oil provides treatment benefits for skin cancer by targeting B16-F10 cell lines. These combined findings highlight the plant's broad efficacy as a potential agent for various cancer treatments.
Preparations
Matayba guianensis is prepared as essential oils to investigate its potential therapeutic applications in medicine. These oils were specifically evaluated for their genotoxic and cytotoxic properties within the context of cancer research. During the study, the essential oils derived from this plant were tested against various skin, breast, and brain cancer cell lines. Results indicated that the oils of Matayba guianensis exhibited significant activity across all the tested tumor models. Consequently, this specific preparation shows great promise as a selective anticancer agent for future therapeutic strategies.