Nicotiana tabacum
Nicotiana tabacum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (3 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Nicotiana tabacum is a versatile plant species known for containing potent chemical compounds such as nicotine, tannins, flavonoids, and (E,E)-farnesol. Derived from various plant parts including the leaf and root, it is processed through preparations like decoctions, infusions, and specialized cell cultures. Scientific interest in this species focuses on its diverse biological activities, ranging from anthelmintic and antiviral properties to (-)-chronotropic and (-)-inotropic effects. Researchers extensively study its impact on complex physiological conditions such as cancer, cell death, drought, and heat stress. Consequently, this plant serves as a vital subject in both pharmacological studies and cellular stress response research.
- Synonyms
- Nicotiana Tabacum Convar. Latissima · Nicotiana Tabacum Var. Lingua · 63 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Common Names
Nicotiana tabacum is a plant species known by a variety of different common names depending on the region and language. It is frequently referred to as Baco or Echte tabak in certain botanical circles. Some enthusiasts also recognize it by the name Echter Tabak to denote its specific characteristics. Interestingly, less conventional terms such as Ffwgws and Mwglys have also been associated with this particular plant. Understanding these diverse naming relationships helps clarify the many ways this species is identified globally.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Nicotiana tabacum is a highly versatile species that is frequently associated with a diverse array of botanical synonyms. Within various taxonomic records, it is often identified interchangeably with names such as Nicotiana alba and Nicotiana alipes. The plant's complex classification history also links it to Nicotiana angustifolia and Nicotiana auriculata in several scientific contexts. Furthermore, the name Nicotiana capensis is sometimes employed as a synonym in specific studies of its lineage. Understanding these overlapping botanical relationships is essential for accurate identification and research.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Nicotiana tabacum belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, encompassing a diverse array of living organisms. Within this realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the fundamental flowering plants. It further falls into the order Solanales, a group that defines its evolutionary lineage. This plant is a prominent member of the family Solanaceae, often referred to as the nightshade family. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Nicotiana, which distinguishes it from other related species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Nicotiana |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Nicotiana tabacum exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans several distinct regions across the African continent. In East Tropical Africa, this species is established within the landscapes of both Kenya and Tanzania. Beyond the mainland, its distribution extends into the Atlantic islands of the Macaronesia region. Specifically, it can be found inhabiting the unique environments of the Azores, the Canary Islands, and Cape Verde. This widespread presence highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various island and continental ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Nicotiana tabacum is characterized by its distinct herbaceous growth form. As a self-supporting plant, it maintains its structure without the need for external assistance. Depending on environmental conditions, its height can vary significantly between 0.6 m and 3 m. Most specimens typically reach a minimum stature of 1.25 m during their development. This range of physical dimensions highlights the versatile nature of the species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Nicotiana tabacum is a versatile plant species that exhibits a diverse range of biological activities according to recent scientific research. Studies have demonstrated that its crude methanolic extracts possess significant anthelmintic properties, showing high efficacy in killing nematode parasites like Haemonchus contortus. Beyond its antiparasitic potential, the plant produces a unique lectin known as NICTABA, which displays broad-spectrum antiviral activity against several enveloped viruses, including HIV-1 and influenza. Furthermore, the plant is recognized for its psychoactive qualities, contributing to our broader understanding of how plant-derived compounds interact with the human neurochemical system. Together, these multifaceted properties highlight the complex therapeutic and pharmacological importance of this species.
Compounds
Nicotiana tabacum is a complex plant characterized by a diverse profile of secondary metabolites that contribute to its various biological activities. It serves as a major source of the alkaloid nicotine, which is also found alongside other alkaloids such as anabasine. The plant's chemical composition includes significant amounts of phenolic compounds, specifically tannins and flavonoids, which are often responsible for its therapeutic and acaricidal properties. Furthermore, through metabolic engineering, tobacco leaves can be utilized to produce specific specialized compounds like isorhoifolin. Understanding these diverse chemical relationships is essential for both studying the plant's natural biology and developing its potential in biotechnology.
Conditions
Nicotiana tabacum can be utilized to treat Cd stress by overexpressing the CIP1 transporter, which improves cadmium tolerance and enhances accumulation capacity in the roots. Research suggests that components of the plant, such as nicotine and specific MAO-B inhibitors, hold potential for the treatment of Parkinson's disease through neuroprotective mechanisms. The plant also serves as a platform for treating cancer via the production of tobacco-derived vaccines and patient-tailored anti-lymphoma antibodies. In certain biological contexts, specific proteins like SlSPL-CNR can induce cell death within the plant tissue. Furthermore, the expression of the KdN41 gene can be used to improve drought resistance in tobacco by reducing oxidative damage and increasing antioxidant enzyme activities.
Preparations
Nicotiana tabacum is prepared as decoctions and infusions within traditional medicinal and ethno-veterinary health systems. In laboratory settings, the species is utilized as cell cultures and cell suspension cultures to facilitate the biotransformation of various compounds. Additionally, the plant is associated with the preparation of chemma, although the specific risks of this product require further scientific investigation. These diverse preparation methods demonstrate the plant's broad utility in both ethnopharmacological practices and biotechnological research.
Parts used
Nicotiana tabacum is a versatile plant species frequently utilized in scientific research to study various phytochemical and biological properties. Researchers have successfully isolated unique compounds, such as the heterodimer nicotabaflavonoidglycoside, specifically from its leaves. Furthermore, the plant's leaves serve as a source of chlorogenic acid, which has been studied for its role in enhancing the genotoxicity of other compounds. Beyond leaf analysis, the roots of Nicotiana tabacum are also significant, providing a subject for advanced mass spectrometric imaging protocols. Finally, the plant's root system is used as a critical tool in metabolic engineering to facilitate the production of medicinal alkaloids.