Mundulea chapelieri

Mundulea chapelieri · Accepted scientific name

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

Mundulea chapelieri is a botanical species recognized for its unique chemical composition and potential pharmacological properties. Research into this plant has identified several significant bioactive compounds, including 8alpha-acetoxyelemol, MS-II, Mundulone, and Rotenolone. To study these constituents effectively, scientists frequently utilize methanolic extracts to isolate the plant's active principles. These chemical profiles suggest that the species may hold importance in the field of natural product chemistry. Understanding the diverse makeup of Mundulea chapelieri remains a key area of interest for ongoing phytochemical investigations.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Millettia Chapelieri
Common names
Not available
Family
Fabaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Common Names

Mundulea chapelieri is a notable plant species recognized by several distinct local identifiers. Depending on the specific region or dialect, it is frequently referred to by the common name Famamo. In other contexts, the same tree is known as Fanamorano, illustrating the linguistic diversity surrounding its identity. These varying names highlight the deep cultural connections people have developed with the species over time. Understanding these different monikers is essential for anyone studying the local flora and its traditional nomenclature.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Mundulea chapelieri is a botanical species that is also recognized by its scientific synonym, Millettia chapelieri. While these two names may appear different, they refer to the exact same plant within different taxonomic classifications. This nomenclature shift often occurs as researchers refine the genetic understanding of various plant families. Understanding these synonymous relationships is essential for botanists seeking to maintain accurate records across different literature. Consequently, identifying both names ensures that researchers can consistently track the study of this specific species.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Mundulea chapelieri belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, marking its place among the diverse world of living plants. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the biological order Fabales, which connects it to a specific lineage of flowering plants. As a member of the family Fabaceae, it shares characteristics with the well-known legume group. Ultimately, this unique organism is identified by its specific genus, Mundulea.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Fabales
Family Fabaceae
Genus Mundulea

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Mundulea chapelieri is a distinctive plant species with a geographically specific presence. Its natural distribution is primarily centered throughout the African continent. Beyond the mainland, it also thrives within the diverse ecosystems of the Western Indian Ocean. Furthermore, the plant maintains a notable presence across the unique landscapes of Madagascar. These combined regions define the specialized ecological range where this species can be found.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Mundulea chapelieri is characterized by its distinctive growth form as a tree.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Mundulea chapelieri, a plant sourced from the Madagascar Rainforest, serves as a rich source of various bioactive chemical compounds. Through bioassay-guided fractionation of its methanolic extracts, researchers have identified several significant constituents. Specifically, the plant contains the flavonoids 3-Deoxy-MS-II, MS-II, and Mundulone. In addition to these flavonoids, the species also contains the sesquiterpenoid 8alpha-acetoxyelemol. Finally, the presence of Rotenolone within the plant has been noted for its potent cytotoxic properties.

Conditions

Mundulea chapelieri contains bioactive compounds that demonstrate significant cytotoxic effects against the A2780 human ovarian cancer cell line. Through bioassay-guided fractionation of its methanolic extracts, researchers isolated several flavonoids and sesquiterpenoids capable of treating these cancer cells. Among the many identified substances, rotenolone and rotenone emerged as the most effective agents in the study. These two specific compounds exhibited high potency with IC50 values of 0.5 and 0.7 microg/mL, respectively. Consequently, the plant serves as a valuable source of chemical constituents for inhibiting the growth of this particular ovarian cancer line.

Preparations

Mundulea chapelieri is prepared as methanolic extracts to facilitate the isolation of various chemical compounds. Through bioassay-guided fractionation of these specific extracts, researchers identified two new flavonoids named isomundulinol and 3-deoxy-MS-II. The process also successfully yielded eight known flavonoids and one known sesquiterpenoid from the plant material. These extracted substances were subsequently tested to evaluate their cytotoxic potential against human ovarian cancer cells. The methanolic preparation method proved essential for discovering potent compounds like rotenolone and rotenone.

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