Pityrocarpa moniliformis
Pityrocarpa moniliformis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pityrocarpa moniliformis is a botanical species of significant interest due to its diverse array of bioactive secondary metabolites. Scientific investigations into the plant's leaf extracts have revealed the presence of key chemical constituents, including flavonoids, saponins, steroids, and triterpenes. Researchers have utilized various solvent systems to isolate these compounds, specifically employing cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol preparations. These different extraction methods allow for a detailed profiling of the plant's complex chemical landscape. Understanding these phytochemical properties is essential for exploring the potential therapeutic applications of this species.
- Synonyms
- Stryphnodendron Piptadenioides · Stryphnodendron Consimile · 1 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Pityrocarpa moniliformis is a plant known by a diverse array of regional common names. In various locales, it is frequently referred to as Angico-de-bezerro or simply as Carrasco. It is also widely recognized under the alternative titles of Carrasqueiro and Catanduba. Furthermore, the species is often called Catanduva depending on the specific area of its habitat. This variety of nomenclature reflects the plant's widespread presence and its deep connection to local botanical traditions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pityrocarpa moniliformis is a species that has been identified under several different botanical names throughout various studies. In many scientific records, it is recognized by the synonym Piptadenia moniliformis. Researchers have also documented its classification under the name Stryphnodendron consimile. Additionally, the plant is linked to the synonym Stryphnodendron piptadenioides in certain taxonomic contexts. Understanding these various nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pityrocarpa moniliformis is a unique botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Fabales, showcasing its distinct evolutionary lineage. It holds a specialized place within the genus Pityrocarpa, which helps researchers identify its specific traits. Ultimately, this species is a proud member of the Fabaceae family, connecting it to a diverse group of legumes.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pityrocarpa |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pityrocarpa moniliformis is a notable plant species found across diverse regions of South America. Its geographic reach includes significant portions of Brazil, specifically within the Northeast and Southeast territories. Beyond the Brazilian borders, the species also thrives in Western South America. This expanded range is particularly evident in the landscapes of Bolivia, where it maintains a steady presence. Together, these locations illustrate the widespread distribution of the plant throughout the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pityrocarpa moniliformis is a distinct tree species characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. This plant typically develops a structural presence that allows it to stand independently within its habitat. In terms of stature, it reaches a maximum height of approximately 7 meters. However, under certain optimal conditions, its growth can extend to a peak of 8 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Pityrocarpa moniliformis possesses a diverse chemical profile that is essential to understanding its biological properties. Through phytochemical qualitative analysis using thin layer chromatography, researchers have identified several key bioactive compounds within its leaf extracts. Specifically, the plant contains flavonoids and saponins, which contribute to its complex chemical makeup. Furthermore, the presence of steroids and triterpenes was also confirmed during the testing of various organic solvents. These identified secondary metabolites serve as the foundation for evaluating the plant's overall cytotoxicity and safety.
Conditions
Pityrocarpa moniliformis was evaluated for its potential to treat acute toxicity, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and mutagenicity through various organic extracts. In studies regarding acute toxicity, no deaths or behavioral alterations were observed in mice even after high doses were administered. Regarding cytotoxicity, the extracts demonstrated the ability to alter the proliferation of HEK cells and increase the viability of J774 cells. Tests for genotoxicity using the comet assay showed that the plant extracts did not cause significant damage to cellular DNA. Finally, the extracts showed no evidence of inducing mutagenicity, as demonstrated by the absence of micronucleus formation in the tested animals.
Preparations
Pityrocarpa moniliformis leaves were processed into specific organic extracts to facilitate various pharmacological evaluations. Specifically, the plant is prepared as a cyclohexane extract identified as EP1. It is also prepared as an ethyl acetate extract designated as EP2. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as a methanol extract referred to as EP3. These three distinct solvent preparations allowed for the comprehensive study of the plant's phytochemical and toxicological properties.
Parts used
Pityrocarpa moniliformis contains bioactive properties that can be effectively studied through its leaf extracts. Researchers utilized three different organic solvents—cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol—to extract various compounds from these leaves. Qualitative analysis of these leaf extracts revealed a rich presence of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, triterpenes, steroids, and saponins. Testing demonstrated that while certain extracts influenced cell proliferation, they did not induce significant genotoxicity or DNA damage. Ultimately, the study concluded that the organic extracts derived from the leaves of this plant are not considered toxic in the tested models.