Stephanotis volubilis
Stephanotis volubilis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Stephanotis volubilis, also known as Wattakaka volubilis, is a climbing plant recognized for its unique chemical profile. Scientific investigations have focused on its leaves, particularly through the use of a Wattakaka volubilis steroidal glycoside mixture (WVSM). Research indicates that this plant possesses cytotoxic activities that are of significant interest in pharmacological studies. Key chemical constituents identified within its structure include hexadecanoic acid, octadecanoic acid, ppG, and N,N-diisopropyl(2,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropyl)amine. Understanding these bioactive compounds provides essential insight into the plant's therapeutic potential.
- Synonyms
- Apocynum Tiliifolium · Tylophora Macrantha · 23 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Stephanotis volubilis is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of names across different cultures and languages. In various local contexts, it is affectionately known as Jukti or Hirandodi. Its botanical identity is further reflected in the regional term Yuktiful, highlighting its unique characteristics. The plant also holds specific designations in Chinese, where it is referred to as Jia Ye Lai Xiang. Additionally, it is commonly called Nanshan Teng, showcasing the wide linguistic range used to describe this species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Stephanotis volubilis is a complex species that has been identified under several different botanical names throughout history. Scientific literature frequently links this plant to the synonyms Apocynum tiliifolium and Asclepias volubilis. Researchers have also categorized it within the Dregea genus, specifically noting its relationship to Dregea angustifolia. Furthermore, the plant is closely associated with the taxonomic classifications of Dregea formosana and Dregea lanceolata. Understanding these various synonyms is essential for accurate identification and consistent botanical study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Stephanotis volubilis is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast botanical realm, the species belongs to the class Equisetopsida. It is further classified under the order Gentianales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. This plant is a prominent representative of the genus Stephanotis. Finally, it finds its botanical home within the family Apocynaceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Stephanotis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Stephanotis volubilis exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans both temperate and tropical regions of Asia. In the temperate zones, the species is widely distributed throughout various parts of China, including the south-central and southeast regions. Its presence extends further east to the island of Taiwan, marking a significant portion of its temperate habitat. Moving into tropical climates, the plant is well-established across the Indian Subcontinent, specifically within Assam. Additionally, its reach encompasses Bangladesh, demonstrating a robust adaptability to different Asian environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Stephanotis volubilis, also known as Dregea volubilis, has demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity through the isolation of specific secondary metabolites. Researchers identified several polyhydroxy pregnane glycosides, including new compounds named volubilosides G-K, from the plant's twigs and leaves. When these isolated compounds were tested against eight different cancer cell lines, they exhibited varying levels of effectiveness. The study reported IC50 values ranging from 4.29 to 21.05 μM, highlighting the potent biological impact of these molecules. Ultimately, these findings suggest that the plant's chemical constituents may serve as promising lead compounds for developing new anti-cancer drugs.
Compounds
Stephanotis volubilis, also known as Wattakaka volubilis, is a medicinal plant rich in bioactive phytochemicals with significant therapeutic potential. Research indicates that this plant contains hexadecanoic acid and octadecanoic acid, both of which have been successfully integrated into electrospun nanofibers for tissue engineering. These fatty acids assist in enhancing the growth and proliferation of meniscus and osteoblast cells within specialized scaffolds. Additionally, the plant contains ppG, a steroidal glycoside that exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties in various biological models. Together, these chemical constituents support the traditional Ayurvedic use of the plant in treating inflammatory disorders and advancing regenerative medicine.
Conditions
Stephanotis volubilis, identified in the research as Dregea volubilis, demonstrates significant cytotoxic activity against several cancer cell lines. The plant's isolated pregnane saponins effectively treat the A549 cell line with measurable inhibitory effects. It also shows therapeutic potential in treating HT29 and HepG2 cancer cells. Furthermore, the compounds derived from the plant are capable of treating the K562 line. Finally, the research confirms that these extracts can treat MB49 cells, serving as potential leads for anti-cancer drug development.
Preparations
Stephanotis volubilis is prepared as the Wattakaka volubilis steroidal glycoside mixture (WVSM) used in medicinal research. This mixture contains polyhydroxy pregnane glycoside (PPG), which is a specific steroidal glycoside isolated from the plant. The WVSM plays a crucial role in inhibiting COX-2 and iNOS enzymes during inflammatory responses. By suppressing these enzymes, the mixture effectively lowers levels of PGE2 and NO in macrophage cells. Consequently, the preparation of this mixture supports the traditional application of the plant in treating various inflammatory disorders.
Parts used
Stephanotis volubilis, also known as Dregea volubilis, serves as a significant source of bioactive chemical compounds. Research into this species has specifically focused on the extraction of pregnane saponins from its twigs and leaves. Through advanced spectroscopic techniques, scientists have successfully identified several new polyhydroxy pregnane glycosides, including volubilosides G through K. These isolated metabolites were subsequently tested against various cancer cell lines to evaluate their potential medicinal properties. The findings suggest that these leaf-derived compounds could act as vital lead structures for developing future anti-cancer drugs.