Vincetoxicum tanakae
Vincetoxicum tanakae · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Vincetoxicum tanakae is a specialized plant species often studied for its unique chemical composition. Researchers have identified the presence of specific compounds, such as Conduritol F, within its biological structure. To access these bioactive substances, the plant's roots are frequently harvested and processed into various preparations. Understanding the optimal conditions for its growth is essential for ensuring a consistent supply of these medicinal materials. Consequently, the study of its root extracts remains a significant area of interest in botanical research.
- Synonyms
- Tylophora Hispida Var. Tanakae · Vincetoxicum Tanakae Var. Glabrescens · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Vincetoxicum tanakae is a distinctive climbing plant known commonly by the Japanese name ツルモウリンカ. This species belongs to the milkweed family and is often recognized by its delicate, trailing vines and specialized flowering structures. In its natural habitats, it plays a specific role within the local ecosystem by interacting with various pollinators. Understanding its common nomenclature helps botanists and enthusiasts alike identify the plant more easily in the field. Exploring the botanical relationships of this species provides deeper insight into its unique biological characteristics.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Vincetoxicum tanakae is a plant species that is frequently identified through various taxonomic synonyms in botanical literature. Scientific records indicate that it is closely associated with the names Tylophora hispida var. tanakae and Tylophora tanakae. Furthermore, the plant is often referred to by the synonym Tylophora tanakae var. glabrescens depending on the specific classification used. It is also recognized under the synonymous designation of Vincetoxicum tanakae var. glabrescens. Understanding these various naming relationships is essential for accurate identification and consistent research within the field.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Vincetoxicum tanakae is a distinct biological entity that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It is further organized into the order Gentianales, which helps define its evolutionary lineage. As a member of the family Apocynaceae, it shares characteristics with many other milkweeds and dogbanes. Finally, this plant is categorized under the genus Vincetoxicum, placing it within a specific group of climbing perennials.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Vincetoxicum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Vincetoxicum tanakae is a plant species primarily found within the Asia-temperate region. Its natural distribution is concentrated in Eastern Asia, where it thrives in specific environmental conditions. Within this broad territory, the species is notably present throughout the various islands of Japan. More specifically, it can be identified growing within the Nansei-shoto archipelago. Understanding these distinct geographical ranges is essential for studying the plant's unique ecological niche.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Vincetoxicum tanakae is a herbaceous plant characterized by its distinctive growth form. This species relies on an obligatory climbing habit to ascend and navigate its surrounding environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Vincetoxicum tanakae has been identified as a significant source of the compound conduritol F. Research into various Asclepiadaceous plants reveals that this specific substance is present across several different species. Within the study, researchers noted that the chemical profile of the plant includes unique glucosidic linkages. Specifically, the 2-O-glucoside form of conduritol F was isolated from this particular taxon. These findings highlight the diverse chemical distributions found throughout the Asclepiadaceae family.
Conditions
Vincetoxicum tanakae, specifically through its isolated alkaloids, exhibits potent cytotoxic activity against the drug-sensitive KB-3-1 cancer cell line. The plant also demonstrates efficacy in treating the multidrug-resistant KB-V1 cancer cell line, with some compounds showing activity comparable to clinically used drugs. Furthermore, the plant's growth can be stimulated through transgenic mimicry of a pathogen attack via the insertion of a synthetic cryptogein gene. This genetic transformation specifically leads to increased biomass in the species. Collectively, these studies highlight the medicinal potential and growth responses associated with this plant.
Preparations
Vincetoxicum tanakae is prepared as roots within the context of the research involving transgenic mimicry. The study examines how genetic transformation using Agrobacterium rhizogenes affects the growth and metabolite production of these root cultures. Specifically, the researchers utilized the roots of this species to explore the effects of inserting a synthetic gene encoding cryptogein. This process aims to stimulate secondary metabolite accumulation by mimicking a pathogen attack. Consequently, the root preparation serves as a critical component for studying biochemical phenotypes in the plant.
Parts used
Vincetoxicum tanakae serves as a significant subject in research regarding the genetic mimicry of pathogen attacks. In recent studies, researchers utilized Agrobacterium rhizogenes to insert a synthetic gene encoding cryptogein specifically into the plant's root structures. While other species showed a boost in both secondary metabolites and biomass, this particular plant demonstrated a unique response centered on growth stimulation. This focus on the root part highlights how targeted genetic transformations can influence the physiological development of medicinal or weed species. Ultimately, these findings contribute to a broader understanding of how microbial elicitors can shape plant interactions and growth patterns.