Urceola micrantha
Urceola micrantha · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Urceola micrantha is a botanical specimen that has gained scientific interest due to its diverse chemical profile. Research indicates that the stem of this plant contains significant bioactive compounds, including epicatechin, proanthocyanidin A1, proanthocyanidin A2, and procyanidin B2. These specific chemicals contribute to the plant's notable antioxidant activities within biological systems. Such properties are particularly relevant when studying the plant's potential to influence conditions involving Matrix Metalloproteinase 1. Consequently, understanding the phytochemical makeup of this species offers valuable insights into its therapeutic possibilities.
- Synonyms
- Cudicia Gyrandra · Ecdysanthera Utilis · 24 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Urceola micrantha is a diverse botanical species known by several distinct names across different cultures and languages. In various regions, it is commonly referred to as du zhong teng or gomu-kazura. This linguistic variety extends to East Asia, where it is recognized by the Japanese name ゴムカズラ. Within Chinese-speaking communities, the plant is frequently identified as both 中赛格多 and 乳藤. Such a wide array of common names highlights the global presence and regional significance of this unique plant.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Urceola micrantha is a botanical subject characterized by a complex web of taxonomic synonyms. This plant is frequently identified in scientific literature under the name Chavannesia montana. It is also recognized through the synonym Cudicia gyrandra, reflecting various historical classifications. Furthermore, the species is closely associated with several names within the Ecdysanthera genus, including Ecdysanthera annamensis and Ecdysanthera brachiata. Finally, it is documented under the synonym Ecdysanthera cambodiensis, highlighting the diverse nomenclature used to describe this single taxon.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Urceola micrantha belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, serving as a distinct representative of the natural world. Within this expansive group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further categorized into the order Gentianales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. It is a member of the family Apocynaceae, sharing common traits with many other flowering species. Finally, its specific identity is defined by its placement within the genus Urceola.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Urceola |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Urceola micrantha is a plant species primarily found across the diverse landscapes of Asia-Temperate regions. Its distribution is particularly concentrated within China, spanning from the South-Central areas to the Southeast. The species also thrives in unique environments such as the island of Hainan and the high altitudes of Tibet. Beyond mainland China, its presence extends into Eastern Asia, specifically within the Nansei-shoto islands. This wide geographic range highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various ecological niches across the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Urceola micrantha is a distinctive shrub characterized by its obligatory climbing habit. This vigorous climber relies on other structures for support as it ascends toward the canopy. Under optimal conditions, the plant can achieve a remarkable maximum height of 50 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Urceola micrantha is a traditional Malaysian plant that demonstrates significant potential in the fight against biological aging. Research indicates that the stem of this plant possesses potent antioxidant properties, which are essential for neutralizing reactive oxygen species that cause cellular damage. In studies utilizing a simplex centroid mixture design, the single extract of this species was identified as one of the most effective formulations. Notably, it exhibited the highest inhibition levels towards the enzyme matrix metalloproteinase-1. These findings suggest that Urceola micrantha could serve as a vital natural resource for developing novel anti-aging agents.
Compounds
Urceola micrantha serves as a significant source of various bioactive phytochemicals. Detailed chemical analysis reveals that the plant contains the important flavonoid epicatechin. Furthermore, it is rich in specific proanthocyanidins, including both proanthocyanidin A1 and proanthocyanidin A2. The plant's chemical profile also includes the presence of procyanidin B2. Finally, the identification of aesculitannin C further highlights the complex nutritional and medicinal composition of Urceola micrantha.
Conditions
Urceola micrantha possesses antioxidant properties that serve as a promising approach to alleviate the aging process and prevent Alzheimer's disease. Research indicates that the stem extract of this plant is highly effective in combating biological aging. Specifically, a single extract of U. micrantha demonstrated the highest inhibition towards the enzyme matrix metalloproteinase-1. These combined therapeutic effects highlight the plant's potential in managing age-related physiological changes. Such medicinal capabilities position U. micrantha as a significant natural resource for addressing neurodegenerative and aging concerns.
Preparations
Parts used
Urceola micrantha stem has emerged as a significant component in the development of natural anti-aging formulations. Recent investigations utilizing a simplex centroid mixture design approach have highlighted its potent antioxidant properties. When tested against various aging-related enzymes, the single extract of this plant demonstrated remarkable efficacy. Specifically, it showed the highest inhibition towards matrix metalloproteinase-1 among the studied samples. These findings suggest that the stem of Urceola micrantha serves as a promising baseline for creating novel therapeutic agents from traditional medicinal resources.