Pleiogynium timoriense
Pleiogynium timoriense · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pleiogynium timoriense is a unique botanical species that has garnered significant attention in pharmacological research. Recent studies have focused specifically on the biological properties found within the plant's bark. Investigations have demonstrated that the dichloromethane (DCM) extract of the bark possesses notable medicinal potential. Most significantly, this specific preparation has exhibited potent antiproliferative activities. These findings suggest that the plant may hold promise for future developments in cancer research and therapeutic applications.
- Synonyms
- Icica Timoriensis · Clausena Timoriensis · 6 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Anacardiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Pleiogynium timoriense is a versatile botanical species known by a wide variety of regional and international names. In English-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as the Burdekin Plum or the Tulip Plum. It also carries the name Ameixa-de-burdekin, reflecting its diverse linguistic presence across different cultures. In Central Europe, the plant is identified as jadernica timorská, showing its reach into diverse botanical circles. This global recognition is further highlighted by its designation as Плейогинум тиморский in Cyrillic script.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pleiogynium timoriense is a botanical species characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. Within scientific literature, this plant is frequently identified by the alternative name Clausena timoriensis. It is also recognized under the synonym Icica timoriensis, reflecting different historical classifications. Further variations in naming include Owenia cerasifera and Pleiogynium cerasiferum. Finally, the specific variety Pleiogynium cerasiferum var. glabratum is also categorized as a synonym for this single species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pleiogynium timoriense is a distinctive biological entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. This species is further organized into the order Sapindales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. It sits within the family Anacardiaceae, a group known for its diverse botanical characteristics. Ultimately, this plant is defined by its unique placement within the genus Pleiogynium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Pleiogynium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pleiogynium timoriense is a distinctive plant species primarily found within the diverse tropical regions of Asia. Its natural range extends across the Indo-China peninsula, including significant presence in Vietnam. The species also flourishes throughout the Malesian archipelago, spanning from the island of Borneo to the Philippines. Additionally, its distribution reaches into the Lesser Sunda Islands and the Maluku region. This broad geographic footprint highlights the plant's adaptability to various tropical island ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pleiogynium timoriense is a self-supporting tree that establishes a sturdy presence in its natural habitat. This species exhibits a distinct growth form characterized by its upright structure. Reaching a maximum height of 20 meters, it can become a prominent feature of the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Pleiogynium timoriense has demonstrated significant potential in pharmacological research due to its notable antiproliferative activity. Investigations into the bark extract of this plant revealed a strong ability to inhibit the growth of the A2780 ovarian cancer cell line. Through bioassay-directed fractionation, researchers successfully isolated three new bioactive trihydroxyalkylcyclohexenones. These specific compounds exhibited impressive submicromolar potency against human ovarian cancer cells during testing. Such findings highlight the plant's value as a source of specialized chemical structures for cancer research.
Compounds
Conditions
Pleiogynium timoriense demonstrates significant antiproliferative activity against the A2780 human ovarian cancer cell line. Investigations into a dichloromethane extract of its bark revealed an inhibitory potency with an IC50 value of 1.3 μg/mL. Through bioassay-directed fractionation, researchers identified three new bioactive trihydroxyalkylcyclohexenones within the plant material. These specific compounds, labeled 1-3, exhibit potent submicromolar activity against the ovarian cancer cells. Each of these isolated substances achieved impressive IC50 values ranging from 0.7 to 0.8 μM.
Preparations
Pleiogynium timoriense is prepared as a dichloromethane (DCM) extract sourced specifically from its bark. This particular extract was identified within the former Merck collection of natural product extracts for its biological properties. During investigation, the DCM extract demonstrated significant antiproliferative activity against the A2780 ovarian cancer cell line. The process of bioassay-directed fractionation of this bark extract led to the isolation of three bioactive trihydroxyalkylcyclohexenones. These specific compounds, derived from the DCM extract of the bark, exhibited potent submicromolar activity against human ovarian cancer cells.