Pachyrhizus erosus
Pachyrhizus erosus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pachyrhizus erosus is a remarkable botanical species known for its diverse range of biological properties. The plant's seeds are particularly noteworthy due to their specialized chemical activities, including serving as an effective acaricide and acidulant. Research also suggests that these seeds function as a 5-Alpha-Reductase-Inhibitor, highlighting their potential medicinal value. Furthermore, the plant exhibits absorbent qualities that contribute to its unique physiological profile. Understanding these multifaceted characteristics provides valuable insight into the plant's practical applications.
- Synonyms
- Cacara Erosa · Pachyrhizus Angulatus F. Integrifolius · 13 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Pachyrhizus erosus is a versatile plant known by a wide array of regional names across different cultures. In many parts of Southeast Asia, it is frequently referred to as Bangkuang or Bengkuang. It also carries the name Batata de burro, a title that highlights its diverse linguistic roots. In English-speaking regions, the tuber is most commonly identified as Jicama. Some people may also use the alternative spelling, Jikama, when referring to this popular root vegetable.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pachyrhizus erosus is a botanical subject that has been identified by several different scientific names throughout history. It is frequently referred to by the synonyms Cacara erosa and Cacara palmatiloba in various taxonomic records. Additionally, the plant has been classified under the genus Dolichos, specifically as Dolichos articulatus and Dolichos erosus. Some historical documentation even lists it as Dolichos palmatilobus, reflecting the evolving nature of botanical nomenclature. Understanding these diverse synonyms is essential for researchers tracking the plant's identity across different scientific literatures.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pachyrhizus erosus belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, showcasing the diverse beauty of the natural world. Within this kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Fabales, which connects it to a specific group of flowering plants. As a member of the family Fabaceae, it shares important biological traits with other legumes. Finally, this plant is identified by its unique genus, Pachyrhizus, which distinguishes it from its botanical relatives.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pachyrhizus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pachyrhizus erosus exhibits a widespread distribution across various regions of the African continent. Its presence is noted in East Tropical Africa, specifically within the borders of Tanzania. The species also thrives in West-Central Tropical Africa, with established populations found in both Cameroon and Gabon. Furthermore, it extends its reach into the Western Indian Ocean, inhabiting the island of Madagascar. Finally, its geographical range includes the island nation of Mauritius, completing its diverse continental and maritime footprint.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pachyrhizus erosus is a herbaceous plant characterized by its vigorous and obligatory climbing habit. To support its upward growth, the vine utilizes various structures to ascend toward the light. This climbing process allows the plant to reach a maximum height of approximately 6 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Pachyrhizus erosus seeds serve as a significant source of protein and essential minerals like iron and calcium. During chemical analysis, researchers identified several antinutritional substances present within the seeds. Specifically, the seeds contain tannins, though these are found only in low concentrations. Despite the presence of such factors, processing the seeds into flour can effectively reduce these antinutritional levels. This makes the resulting flour a nutritious option characterized by good digestibility and a rich amino acid profile.
Conditions
Pachyrhizus erosus contains a novel ribosome-inactivating protein called pachyerosin that demonstrates significant cytotoxic potential against various cancer types. Research shows that pachyerosin can be utilized to treat human hepatoma cells, specifically by inhibiting the growth of the HuH-7 cell line. To enhance its effectiveness, an immunotoxin was developed by conjugating the protein with monoclonal antibodies for targeted delivery. This specialized immunotoxin also shows effectiveness in treating the human gastric cancer cell line SGC7901. These findings highlight the plant's components as promising candidates for developing new anticancer agents.
Preparations
Parts used
Pachyrhizus erosus contains seeds that are remarkably rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, lipids, iron, and calcium. These seeds serve as a significant source of protein fractions such as glutelins and globulins, which can be processed into high-quality flour. Beyond their nutritional value, the seeds harbor unique biological properties, including the presence of rotenoids and antinutritional factors. Scientific research has identified a novel ribosome-inactivating protein called pachyerosin within these seeds, which exhibits potent cytotoxic effects. Due to its ability to inhibit protein synthesis, pachyerosin shows great promise as a potential agent in the development of targeted anticancer immunotoxins.