Triplaris cumingiana
Triplaris cumingiana · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Triplaris cumingiana is a notable botanical species recognized for its unique biological characteristics. Researchers have focused significant attention on the specific chemical properties found within its leaf structure. Scientific investigations have revealed that extracts from these leaves exhibit potent cytotoxic activities. Such properties suggest that the plant may hold significant potential for advancements in pharmacological studies. Understanding these cellular interactions is essential for exploring the plant's role in medicinal research.
- Synonyms
- Triplaris Guayaquilensis · Triplaris Lindeniana · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Triplaris cumingiana is a unique tropical tree that is known by several distinct names across different regions. In many English-speaking areas, it is affectionately referred to by its common name, Long John. This species also holds a significant place in Japanese botanical terminology, where it is called アリノキ. These various identifiers help researchers and enthusiasts locate the plant in diverse global contexts. Understanding these linguistic connections provides a clearer picture of the plant's widespread cultural and scientific presence.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Triplaris cumingiana is a botanical species characterized by a complex history of taxonomic classification. Throughout various scientific studies, several names have been identified as synonyms for this specific plant. These include the designations Triplaris arnottiana and Triplaris auriculata. Furthermore, the plant has also been referred to in botanical literature as Triplaris guayaquilensis. Finally, Triplaris lindeniana serves as another recognized synonym within its evolving biological profile.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Triplaris cumingiana is a distinct biological entity that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Caryophyllales, showcasing its specific evolutionary placement. The plant is a member of the family Polygonaceae, which helps define its botanical characteristics. Ultimately, this species is identified by its unique placement within the genus Triplaris.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Triplaris |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Triplaris cumingiana is a widespread species with a diverse geographical presence throughout the tropical regions of the Americas. Its distribution spans across the Caribbean and Puerto Rico, extending further to include the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. The plant also thrives within Central America, specifically making a notable appearance in Panamá. Moving into the mainland, it is found extensively across Northern South America, particularly within Venezuela. Finally, its range stretches through Western South America, where it is commonly documented in Colombia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Triplaris cumingiana is a robust tree species characterized by its impressive and sturdy growth form. As a self-supporting plant, it stands firmly within its natural habitat without the need for external structural assistance. Depending on environmental conditions, the tree can reach a significant height of up to 20 meters. In ideal circumstances, however, it is capable of soaring to a maximum height of 28 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Triplaris cumingiana has demonstrated significant biological potential through the presence of specific cytotoxic flavonol glycosides. Researchers successfully isolated three new compounds, along with two known quercetin derivatives, from the young leaves of this plant species. These chemical constituents were thoroughly analyzed using various spectroscopic methods to establish their precise molecular structures. To assess their medicinal value, the isolated compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against several human cancer cell lines, including MCF-7, H-460, and SF-268. These findings suggest that the plant contains bioactive molecules that may play a role in cancer research and drug development.
Compounds
Conditions
Triplaris cumingiana contains cytotoxic flavonol glycosides that demonstrate therapeutic potential against various human cancer cell lines. Specifically, compounds isolated from its young leaves exhibit activity against the H-460 cell line. The plant also shows effectiveness in treating the MCF-7 cancer cell line. Furthermore, its bioactive constituents provide treatment capabilities against the SF-268 cell line. These specific interactions highlight the medicinal relevance of Triplaris cumingiana in addressing these diverse cancer models.
Preparations
Parts used
Triplaris cumingiana serves as a significant source of bioactive chemical compounds. Recent research has focused on the isolation of specific cytotoxic flavonol glycosides from the young leaves of this plant. Among the substances identified are three new compounds alongside two known derivatives. These molecules were structurally characterized through various spectroscopic methods to ensure accuracy. Ultimately, the study evaluated these leaf-derived compounds for their potential cytotoxic activities against several human cancer cell lines.