Otosema extensa
Otosema extensa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Otosema extensa is a plant species recognized for its significant medicinal potential in pharmacological research. Scientific investigations have focused on the antibacterial activities exhibited by its various components. Specifically, the chemical compound known as auriculatin has been identified as a key constituent within the plant. Researchers primarily utilize both the leaf and root to create specialized preparations for study. These investigations often involve the use of acetone extracts derived from these specific plant parts to evaluate their biological efficacy.
- Synonyms
- Pongamia Macrophylla · Otosema Macrophylla · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Synonyms
Otosema extensa is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Throughout various studies, this species has been identified under several different names, including Amerimnon pallidum and Millettia extensa. Its classification has also been linked closely to Millettia auriculata, appearing in literature as both a distinct variety and a specific form. Specifically, researchers have documented its relationship to Millettia auriculata f. extensa and Millettia auriculata var. extensa. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurately tracking the plant's scientific history.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Otosema extensa is a fascinating member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the intricate diversity of the natural world. This specific species belongs to the genus Otosema, distinguishing it within its biological group. It is classified under the class Equisetopsida and follows the lineage of the order Fabales. Furthermore, its botanical identity is defined by its membership in the family Fabaceae. Understanding these taxonomic connections provides essential insight into the plant's evolutionary history and ecological role.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Otosema |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Otosema extensa is a botanical species widely distributed throughout the tropical regions of Asia. Within the Indian Subcontinent, this plant maintains a significant presence across several key territories. Its range extends through the diverse landscapes of India and Bangladesh, showcasing its adaptability to the region. Furthermore, the species can be found inhabiting the rugged terrains of Nepal and the East Himalaya. These overlapping habitats highlight the widespread ecological footprint of Otosema extensa across South Asia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Otosema extensa, also identified in research as Millettia extensa, serves as a rich source of bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic potential. Recent studies have focused on isolating specific isoflavones from its leaves and roots, such as auriculatin and millexatin F, which exhibit potent antibacterial properties. These derivatives demonstrate the ability to target bacterial cell membranes, leading to increased permeability and eventual cell death. Furthermore, certain compounds extracted from the plant have shown efficacy against a variety of Gram-positive bacteria by inhibiting their growth at low concentrations. Such findings highlight the plant's importance in the ongoing search for novel agents to combat multidrug-resistant infections.
Compounds
Otosema extensa serves as a vital source for the discovery of potent bioactive compounds, most notably the isoflavone known as auriculatin. Recent scientific research has successfully achieved the total synthesis of this compound, highlighting its importance in medicinal chemistry. Investigations into its biological properties reveal that auriculatin possesses significant antibacterial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. The mechanism of action involves direct interaction with bacterial cell membranes, which leads to increased permeability and subsequent cell death. These promising findings position auriculatin as a strong lead candidate for the development of new treatments against multidrug-resistant infections.
Conditions
Otosema extensa, also referred to as Millettia extensa, exhibits significant biological properties through its various isolated compounds. Specifically, certain extracts from this plant demonstrate effective antibacterial activities against various Gram-positive bacteria. Research indicates that compounds 13 and 14 are particularly potent in this antibacterial capacity. Additionally, the plant possesses the ability to treat nitric oxide (NO) production by inhibiting it in RAW264.7 macrophages. Compounds 18 and 19 were specifically identified as successful inhibitors of this nitric oxide production.
Preparations
Otosema extensa is prepared as an acetone extract to facilitate the isolation of rare prenylated isoflavonoids from its young twigs. This specific extraction method allowed researchers to identify new compounds like millexatins N-P and evaluate their cytotoxic activities. Additionally, Otosema extensa is prepared as leaf and root extracts for comprehensive chemical investigations. These specific plant extracts were used to isolate new prenylated isoflavones and coumaronochromones. Such diverse preparation methods enable the study of the plant's antibacterial properties and its ability to inhibit nitric oxide production.
Parts used
Otosema extensa, also referred to in chemical studies as Millettia extensa, contains various bioactive components located within its physical structures. Research indicates that both the leaf and the root serve as primary sources for extracting significant chemical compounds. By investigating these specific parts, scientists have successfully isolated several new prenylated isoflavones and coumaronochromones. These extracts are particularly notable for their potential antibacterial activities and their ability to inhibit nitric oxide production. Consequently, understanding the relationship between the plant's organs and its chemical makeup is essential for medicinal development.