Stellaria yunnanensis

Stellaria yunnanensis · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Stellaria yunnanensis is a unique botanical species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its specialized chemical profile. Research has identified the plant's root as a primary source of potent bioactive compounds. Among these, the specific chemical known as Yunnanin C plays a central role in the plant's biological activity. Studies have demonstrated that these extracts exhibit notable cytotoxic activities, making them subjects of pharmacological investigation. Consequently, this plant represents a promising candidate for further studies in the development of therapeutic agents.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Not available
Common names
Not available
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Root

Classification

Common Names

Stellaria yunnanensis is a fascinating plant known by several distinct Chinese common names. It is frequently referred to as 千针万线草, a name that evokes its delicate structural appearance. In certain regions, it is more specifically identified as 千针万线草(云南繁缕) to denote its unique Yunnan origin. Another variation found in local nomenclature is 钱针万线草, highlighting the linguistic diversity surrounding the species. Understanding these various names is essential for anyone studying the botanical landscape of the region.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Taxonomy

Stellaria yunnanensis is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Caryophyllales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. The plant is a proud member of the family Caryophyllaceae, sharing traits with many other flowering species. Finally, its specific identity is rooted in the genus Stellaria, placing it among its close botanical relatives.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Caryophyllales
Family Caryophyllaceae
Genus Stellaria

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Stellaria yunnanensis is a notable plant species primarily identified within the Asia-Temperate botanical regions. Its presence is most concentrated across the vast landscapes of China, where it plays a role in the local ecosystem. Specifically, the plant thrives within the unique environmental conditions found throughout China South-Central. This geographic distribution highlights the specific climatic requirements necessary for its natural survival and growth. Understanding these regional patterns is essential for researchers studying the biodiversity of this particular area.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Stellaria yunnanensis is a self-supporting herb that maintains a steady, upright presence in its natural habitat. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 0.8 meters as it matures. Depending on environmental conditions, its stature often fluctuates between a minimum of 0.3 meters and 0.55 meters. Such variations in size allow it to adapt effectively to its surrounding ecosystem. Consequently, this herbaceous species remains a resilient component of its local flora.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Stellaria yunnanensis serves as the natural source for the discovery of yunnanin C, a novel cyclic heptapeptide. This specific compound was successfully isolated from the roots of the plant through rigorous chemical analysis. Structural elucidation via spectroscopic evidence revealed that the peptide consists of a unique sequence of seven amino acids. Most notably, research has demonstrated that yunnanin C possesses significant cytotoxic activity. These findings highlight the medicinal potential inherent in the chemical profiles of this plant species.

Compounds

Stellaria yunnanensis is a plant species that serves as a significant source of unique chemical compounds. Researchers have successfully isolated a novel cyclic heptapeptide known as yunnanin C from its roots. This specific compound is characterized by a complex structure consisting of seven amino acids in a cyclic arrangement. Spectroscopic evidence and chemical degradation were both utilized to fully elucidate its molecular makeup. Because of its unique properties, yunnanin C has been identified as a noteworthy cytotoxic agent.

Conditions

Preparations

Parts used

Stellaria yunnanensis serves as the natural source for several unique bioactive compounds discovered through recent botanical research. Specifically, the plant's roots contain a novel cytotoxic cyclic heptapeptide known as yunnanin C. Scientists isolated this specific peptide from the root tissues to study its complex chemical structure. Through spectroscopic evidence and careful chemical degradation, the sequence of the peptide was successfully elucidated. This discovery highlights the significant medicinal potential found within the root systems of this particular species.