Rubus coreanus
Rubus coreanus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Rubus coreanus is a botanical species whose medicinal potential is primarily derived from its nutrient-rich fruit. Scientific investigations into its various preparations, including Rubi Fructus (RF), crude drug, and aqueous fractions, have revealed significant bioactive properties. Central to its therapeutic efficacy is the presence of specific chemical compounds such as Sanguiin H-6. Research suggests that these constituents may play a vital role in addressing physiological conditions like atherosclerosis. Furthermore, studies indicate that extracts like RCE may positively influence reproductive health by improving sperm motility and spermatogenesis.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Fruit
Classification
Common Names
Rubus coreanus is a versatile plant known by several distinct names across different cultures and languages. In various regions, it is commonly referred to as the Korea-Himbeere or the Korean Bramble. It also carries the English designation of Korean Bramble (EN) to specify its origin. In some linguistic contexts, the plant is identified as cha tian pao. Finally, it is recognized by the name korea vaarikas, showcasing its diverse nomenclature.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Rubus coreanus belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, marking its place among the diverse living organisms on Earth. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Rosales. This plant further resides within the prominent family Rosaceae, a group known for many familiar flowering species. Specifically, it is identified by its membership in the genus Rubus. Together, these taxonomic layers define the unique biological identity of this specialized plant.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Rubus coreanus is a resilient plant primarily distributed throughout the temperate regions of Asia. Its presence is extensively documented across various parts of China, ranging from the north-central areas to the south-central and southeast provinces. Additionally, this species can be found as far west as the Xinjiang region. Beyond mainland China, the plant also maintains a significant distribution throughout Eastern Asia, specifically within Korea. This broad geographic range highlights the plant's ability to thrive in diverse temperate environments across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Rubus coreanus is a self-supporting plant that naturally develops into a sturdy shrub form. This species typically reaches a modest height, generally staying within a range of 1 m to 3 m. Depending on its specific growing conditions, the plant may often be found at a minimum height of 2 m. These dimensions contribute to its graceful yet resilient presence in its native habitat. Overall, its structural characteristics make it a versatile addition to many landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Rubus coreanus serves as a significant source of the bioactive compound Sanguiin H-6. Research indicates that this specific molecule is isolated from the aqueous fraction of the plant and demonstrates potent biological activity. Specifically, Sanguiin H-6 works by inhibiting the binding of VEGF to its receptor, which is a critical step in the process of angiogenesis. By blocking this interaction, the compound effectively prevents the proliferation of endothelial cells in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that the relationship between Rubus coreanus and Sanguiin H-6 holds great promise for developing new anti-angiogenic agents.
Conditions
Rubus coreanus serves as a medicinal plant capable of treating blood stasis and atherosclerosis by inhibiting the uptake of oxidized-LDL into macrophages. This extract specifically treats JNK phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner to regulate cellular activation. Additionally, the plant treats VEGF binding to the VEGF receptor, which plays a critical role in managing angiogenesis. Its aqueous fraction further treats the binding of KDR/Flk-1-Fc to immobilized VEGF165 through the active principle Sanguiin H-6. Together, these mechanisms highlight the plant's potential as an anti-angiogenic and cardiovascular therapeutic agent.
Preparations
Rubus coreanus is prepared as RCE, which has been shown to inhibit oxLDL uptake by macrophages. This plant is also prepared as Rubi Fructus (RF), a dried, unripe fruit used to improve male reproductive function. Researchers have utilized Rubus coreanus as an aqueous fraction to investigate its potent inhibitory effects against VEGF binding. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as a crude drug, from which methanol extracts are often derived. Finally, Rubus coreanus is prepared as a fruit extract to study its impact on dose-dependent macrophage responses.
Parts used
Rubus coreanus is a medicinal plant known for its potential to combat cardiovascular issues like atherosclerosis. Specifically, the fruit of this species produces an extract that has shown significant promise in laboratory studies. Research indicates that this unripe fruit extract can inhibit the uptake of oxidized low-density lipoprotein by macrophages. This inhibition appears to occur through the regulation of JNK activation, which helps prevent the formation of foam cells. Consequently, the unique properties of the Rubus coreanus fruit offer a compelling subject for further investigation into blood stasis treatments.