Pterolobium stellatum
Pterolobium stellatum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Pterolobium stellatum is a botanical species frequently studied for its diverse pharmacological potential and chemical properties. In recent investigations, researchers have focused on the biological activities associated with its specific plant components. This study specifically examines the crude extract derived from the plant's root to evaluate its physiological effects. The primary objective is to assess how this preparation influences cellular stability under conditions of DNA damage. By analyzing these interactions, the research aims to uncover the protective or reactive capabilities of the species.
- Synonyms
- Cantuffa Stellata · Caesalpinia Ligulata · 9 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Pterolobium stellatum is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of names across different regions and cultures. While it is commonly referred to as Red-Wing in many English-speaking circles, its identity shifts depending on the local dialect. In various communities, it is recognized by the name Mutanda or as Uthathawe. It also carries the distinct local identifiers of luhakangue and rikatsi. This variety of nomenclature highlights the deep cultural connections and widespread presence of the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Pterolobium stellatum is a species known to exist under a variety of different botanical names. Within scientific literature, it has been identified by synonyms such as Acacia stellata and Caesalpinia ligulata. The plant is also frequently referenced through the names Cantuffa exosa and Cantuffa stellata. Additionally, researchers may encounter this same species labeled as Fillaea brucei in various taxonomic records. Understanding these multiple designations is essential for accurate identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Pterolobium stellatum is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this botanical realm, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It falls into the order Fabales, which helps researchers understand its evolutionary placement. Furthermore, this plant is a member of the diverse Fabaceae family. Ultimately, it is identified by its specific genus, Pterolobium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pterolobium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Pterolobium stellatum is a plant species with a broad distribution across several regions of the African continent. It is widely documented throughout East Tropical Africa, specifically appearing in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The species also extends its reach into Northeast Tropical Africa, establishing a presence in the diverse landscapes of Eritrea. Furthermore, it can be found growing within the borders of Ethiopia, showcasing its adaptability to different environments. This geographical range highlights the plant's significant ecological footprint across both eastern and northeastern Africa.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Pterolobium stellatum is a distinctive plant characterized by its shrub growth form. This species exhibits an obligatory climbing habit, allowing it to scale surrounding structures for support. In terms of size, the plant typically reaches a minimum height of 2 meters. It can expand significantly as it matures, eventually achieving a maximum height of 15 meters. Consequently, its stature remains consistently within this impressive vertical range.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Pterolobium stellatum demonstrates significant antimycobacterial activity by effectively treating the M. tuberculosis H37Rv strain. Its chloroform extract also shows potency in treating the AOZ8W-4 MDR-TB clinical isolate. However, research indicates that the plant can also cause DNA damage in HepG2 cells. This specific genotoxic effect was observed through increased comet tail intensities in treated cultures. Consequently, the plant's ability to induce such genotoxic effects necessitates further safety evaluations.
Preparations
Pterolobium stellatum is prepared as a crude extract to evaluate its potential antimycobacterial properties. Specifically, researchers utilized both chloroform and 80% methanol extracts of this plant for their investigation. The study revealed that the chloroform extract of P. stellatum exhibited significant activity against M. tuberculosis H37Rv and MDR-TB clinical isolates. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate fraction derived from this crude extract proved to be the most potent component tested. These findings highlight the importance of preparing P. stellatum in crude forms to identify its most effective medicinal fractions.
Parts used
Pterolobium stellatum is a medicinal plant frequently utilized in Ethiopian traditional medicine, with its root extracts being a common component of various herbal remedies. Recent toxicological research has focused on assessing the safety of these traditional treatments by examining their potential effects on human DNA. During these studies, researchers specifically tested chloroform and methanol extracts derived from the plant's roots. The results indicated that certain concentrations of these root extracts can induce DNA damage in HepG2 cells, as evidenced by increased comet tail intensity. These findings highlight the need for more rigorous safety evaluations to ensure that the use of Pterolobium stellatum roots does not pose a genotoxic risk to consumers.