Uncaria macrophylla
Uncaria macrophylla · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Uncaria macrophylla is a botanical species recognized for the medicinal potential found within its stem bark. Research focusing on the chloroform-soluble portion of its 90% alcohol-water extract has highlighted significant biological properties. The plant contains key chemical constituents, including Uncariursanic acid and Ursolic acid, which contribute to its pharmacological profile. Studies have specifically investigated its antitumor activities and its impact on locomotor activity. Consequently, this plant represents a subject of interest for those exploring natural compounds for complex therapeutic conditions.
- Synonyms
- Nauclea Grandifolia · Uruparia Macrophylla · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Uncaria macrophylla is a climbing woody vine widely recognized by its Chinese common name, 大葉鉤藤. This plant belongs to the Caprinae subfamily and is prized for its distinctive, large-leaved structure. In many botanical circles, it is studied closely due to the unique chemical properties found within its stems. Its relationship to traditional herbal medicine highlights its significant cultural and scientific importance. Understanding this species helps researchers better appreciate the vast biodiversity found within its natural habitat.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Uncaria macrophylla is a botanical species that is frequently identified by several different scientific names throughout various taxonomic studies. This plant is closely associated with the synonym Nauclea grandifolia, which often appears in historical records. Similarly, it has been documented under the name Nauclea silhetana in specific regional contexts. The species is also linked to Uncaria sessilifolia, reflecting its complex classification history. Finally, the name Uruparia macrophylla serves as another recognized synonym for this distinctive plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Uncaria macrophylla is a unique botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Gentianales, which helps define its biological characteristics. Moving down the taxonomic hierarchy, this plant is a member of the genus Uncaria. Finally, it is officially recognized as a part of the Rubiaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Uncaria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Uncaria macrophylla is a versatile plant species with a broad geographical footprint across various Asian regions. Its distribution spans the temperate zones of China, including the South-Central and Southeast provinces as well as the island of Hainan. Moving into more tropical climates, the species is also widely established throughout the Indian Subcontinent. Specifically, it can be found thriving in the lush environments of Assam and Bangladesh. This extensive range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to diverse ecological settings across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Uncaria macrophylla exhibits a unique growth pattern that distinguishes it from other species in its genus. It relies on an obligatory climbing habit to ascend through its environment and reach the sunlight.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Uncaria macrophylla has emerged as a subject of interest due to the identification of a new oleanolic triterpene within its stem bark. Researchers isolated this specific compound, 3β,6β,19α-trihydroxy-12-oleanen-28-oic acid, from a chloroform-soluble extract of the plant. Through extensive spectroscopic methods, the unique chemical structure of this triterpene was successfully elucidated. Scientific investigations further evaluated its biological potential by testing its cytotoxicities against MCF-7 and HepG2 cancer cell lines. These studies ultimately confirmed that the compound possesses antitumor activity, albeit at weak levels.
Compounds
Uncaria macrophylla is a plant species that has been the subject of extensive phytochemical investigation to identify its diverse chemical constituents. Scientific studies have successfully isolated several key compounds from the plant, including the sterol beta-sitosterol and the flavonoid epicatechin. Furthermore, research into the stem bark has identified specific triterpenes such as daucosterin and ursolic acid. The discovery of uncariursanic acid represents a significant advancement in understanding the unique chemical profile of this species. These findings highlight the complex biological makeup of Uncaria macrophylla and its potential value in pharmacological research.
Conditions
Uncaria macrophylla exhibits significant agonistic activity regarding the 5-HT1A and 5-HT2C neurotransmitter receptors. This plant species also demonstrates measurable activity toward both MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors. Furthermore, research into its chemical constituents has identified specific compounds that possess antitumor activity. Specifically, a newly discovered oleanolic triterpene from the plant's stem bark shows cytotoxic effects against MCF-7 and HepG2 cancer cell lines. These diverse biological interactions highlight the complex pharmacological potential of the species.
Preparations
Uncaria macrophylla is utilized as the source for stem bark in various phytochemical investigations. This stem bark serves as the primary material for isolating several triterpene compounds. Specifically, the plant is prepared as a chloroform-soluble portion of a 90% alcohol-water extract derived from its stem bark. This specialized extraction process allows for the identification of new molecules like 3β,6β,19α-trihydroxy-12-oleanen-28-oic acid. Through these distinct preparation methods, researchers can effectively study the antitumor properties inherent in the plant's components.
Parts used
Uncaria macrophylla serves as a significant source of bioactive triterpenes that demonstrate potential medicinal properties. Researchers have focused their investigations on the stem bark of this plant to isolate complex chemical structures. Through the use of alcohol-water extracts, scientists successfully identified new compounds such as uncariursanic acid and various oleanolic triterpenes. These specific substances were rigorously analyzed using advanced spectroscopic methods to confirm their unique molecular frameworks. Ultimately, evaluating these stem-derived compounds against MCF-7 and HepG2 cancer cell lines has provided valuable insights into their antitumor activities.