Selaginella doederleinii
Selaginella doederleinii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Selaginella doederleinii is a specialized plant species that has garnered significant attention in pharmacological research. Recent studies have focused on the therapeutic potential of its leaves, particularly regarding their anticancer activities. Investigations into this plant have identified key chemical constituents such as 1,2-epoxyhexadecane, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, 2-butyl-2-octenal, and 2-pentylfuran. These compounds are being rigorously evaluated for their ability to combat specific malignant conditions, most notably cholangiocarcinoma. Understanding these biochemical interactions offers promising insights into developing new botanical treatments for bile duct cancer.
- Synonyms
- Chuselaginella Doederleinii · Lycopodioides Doederleinii
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Selaginellaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Selaginella doederleinii is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. In certain botanical circles, it is referred to as Doederlein's Spikemoss or the greater selaginella. Its linguistic reach extends globally, appearing as Cakar Ayam in some regions and shi shang bai in others. Even specific local names like Aukštoji selaginelė highlight the plant's widespread recognition. This variety of common names reflects the unique cultural and scientific identities associated with the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Selaginella doederleinii is a unique plant species that is frequently identified through various botanical classifications. In scientific literature, it is often noted that this species shares synonyms such as Chuselaginella doederleinii. Additionally, researchers may encounter the plant under the alternative name Lycopodioides doederleinii. These nomenclatural variations can sometimes cause confusion for those studying its specific taxonomy. Understanding these linguistic relationships is essential for ensuring accuracy when documenting the plant's biological history.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Selaginella doederleinii is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the specific order Selaginellales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. This species is a member of the family Selaginellaceae, which highlights its distinct botanical characteristics. Finally, it is identified under the genus Selaginella, placing it among its close biological relatives.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Lycopodiidae |
| Order | Selaginellales |
| Family | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus | Selaginella |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Selaginella doederleinii is a fascinating species primarily distributed throughout the temperate regions of Asia. Its presence is particularly notable across various parts of China, including the South-Central, Southeast, and Hainan regions. Beyond mainland China, the plant extends its range into Eastern Asia, where it can be found thriving in Japan. Specifically, it inhabits the unique environments of the Nansei-shoto islands. This wide geographic spread highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse temperate ecosystems across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Selaginella doederleinii is widely recognized as a popular herb utilized for its potential anticancer activities. However, recent clinical observations highlight significant risks associated with its consumption as an alternative treatment. In one documented case, a patient treated for cholangiocarcinoma developed severe, reversible bone marrow suppression after taking the plant daily. This condition manifested as pancytopenia and skin ecchymosis, though symptoms improved once the herb was discontinued. Researchers suggest that the plant may contain an unidentified substance responsible for these serious hematologic effects.
Compounds
Selaginella doederleinii is a perennial medicinal herb that possesses a complex profile of volatile organic compounds. Detailed chemical analysis has identified several specific constituents within the plant, including the aldehyde 2-butyl-2-octenal and the furan 2-pentylfuran. Furthermore, the herb contains the ketone 4-oxoisophorone along with the compound 6-dodecanone. The presence of 7-tetradecene also serves as a key component in its chemical makeup. These specific volatile markers are essential for distinguishing the plant's chemical composition across different geographical regions.
Conditions
Selaginella doederleinii exhibits significant therapeutic potential through its active compound, chrysocauloflavone I, which demonstrates cytotoxic effects against NCI-H1975, A549, and HepG-2 human cancer cells in vitro. The plant is also utilized as an alternative anticancer treatment for conditions such as cholangiocarcinoma, though it has been associated with severe reversible bone marrow suppression in patients. Furthermore, studies indicate that Selaginella doederleinii inhibits the growth of human NPC TW03 cells by inducing cell cycle arrest at the S phase. This inhibition is achieved by down-regulating Bcl-2 protein expression and up-regulating Bax protein expression within these nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells.
Preparations
Parts used
Selaginella doederleinii serves as a key subject in studies focused on distinguishing closely related medicinal plant species. In this specific research, the leaf of the plant was utilized to obtain precise infrared spectra for comparative analysis. By applying Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, researchers were able to examine the chemical signatures present within these leaf samples. These spectral data were then processed using Principal Component Analysis to establish phenetic relationships among various species. Ultimately, this method proves that analyzing the leaf properties of Selaginella doederleinii can help accurately identify it alongside other similar taxa.