Uvaria calamistrata
Uvaria calamistrata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Uvaria calamistrata is a distinctive plant species that has garnered significant scientific interest due to its unique chemical profile. Researchers have focused their investigations on the plant's root and stem to isolate its bioactive compounds. These studies have successfully identified several important chemicals, including Uvacalol A, Uvacalol B, Uvacalol C, and Uvacalol E. Notably, these constituents have demonstrated potent cytotoxic activities in various biological assays. Understanding these properties provides valuable insights into the plant's potential applications in pharmacological research.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Annonaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Root · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Uvaria calamistrata is a botanical species recognized by various regional and linguistic identifiers. In certain areas, it is commonly referred to by the names ci guo zi yu pan or 刺果紫玉盘. Depending on the specific character usage, it may also be documented as 刺果紫玉盤. Furthermore, this plant is known by the distinct common name 麦奴 in other contexts. These diverse naming conventions highlight the rich cultural and linguistic variety associated with the species.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Uvaria calamistrata 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 descends through the taxonomic order Magnoliales, reflecting its evolutionary lineage. As a member of the genus Uvaria, it exhibits specific morphological traits unique to its group. Ultimately, this plant is most recognized as a specialized member of the Annonaceae family.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Uvaria |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Uvaria calamistrata exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans across various Asian regions. This plant is notably distributed within the temperate zones of China, including the southeastern provinces. Its presence is also documented in the tropical climate of Hainan, highlighting its adaptability to different environments. Furthermore, the species extends its reach into the tropical landscapes of Indo-China, specifically within Vietnam. These varying habitats underscore the widespread ecological footprint of this particular species throughout the continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Uvaria calamistrata is a self-supporting shrub that maintains a sturdy and upright structure. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 6 meters as it matures. Its compact growth form makes it a distinctive feature within its natural habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Uvaria calamistrata has demonstrated significant biological potential through the isolation of unique bioactive compounds. Researchers identified two new monotetrahydrofuran acetogenins, named calamistrins A and B, from the plant's roots. Alongside these new discoveries, the known compounds uvarigrin and uvarigranin were also successfully isolated. Scientific analysis confirmed that these specific acetogenins possess notable cytotoxic activity. Through spectroscopic methods and Mosher ester methodology, the precise structures and stereochemistry of these molecules were carefully established.
Compounds
Uvaria calamistrata is a medicinal plant known to contain several unique chemical compounds within its roots. Specifically, these roots serve as the source for a group of novel carbasugars known as uvacalols. Research has identified several distinct varieties within this group, including uvacalol A, uvacalol B, and uvacalol C. Additionally, the plant contains uvacalol E and uvacalol G, both of which belong to the C7-cyclitol family. Recent total syntheses of these molecules have been instrumental in validating the correct structural identities of these plant-derived compounds.
Conditions
Uvaria calamistrata possesses stems from which several polyoxygenated cyclohexenes, known as uvacalols L-T, were isolated. These specific compounds were evaluated for their potential to treat anti-inflammatory activities by measuring their ability to inhibit NO generation in RAW 264.7 cells. Among the identified substances, compound 8 demonstrated the most significant efficacy in this biological assay. This particular compound achieved a superior inhibitory activity characterized by an IC50 value of 4.49 ± 0.38 μM. Consequently, the chemical constituents of this plant show promising medicinal properties regarding inflammation reduction.
Preparations
Parts used
Uvaria calamistrata is a medicinal plant that serves as a rich source of diverse bioactive compounds. Research has demonstrated that its roots contain unique polyoxygenated cyclohexenes, such as the novel carbasugars known as uvacalols. Additionally, the roots have been identified as the origin of calamistrins A and B, which are cytotoxic monotetrahydrofuran acetogenins. Beyond the root system, the stems of the plant also yield significant chemical constituents, including several previously undescribed polyoxygenated cyclohexenes. These various parts of Uvaria calamistrata continue to provide valuable material for studying anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic properties.