Abstract Detail

Phytochemical Section

Rawlins, Catherine [1], Leist, Benjamin [1], Abler, Rebecca [2], Carlson, Kitrina [3].

Characterization of potential therapeutic properties of the Hmong medicinal plant, Tradescantia zebrina.

Through oral interviews with Hmong elders, Tradescantia zebrina (Tz) was identified as a therapeutic plant used in traditional Hmong medicine. In this culture, Tz is used as a poultice on abnormal growths and in the treatment of wounds. Previous research at UW-Stout found that water decoction extracts of Tz leaves were toxic and inhibitory to head and neck cancer cells. To better understand the medicinal properties of Tz, and potentially isolate plant compounds of interest, a more thorough screening of Tz is underway, including the DPPH antioxidant assay, antimicrobial testing, brine shrimp lethality, and zebra fish embryo chemical screens. Tz leaf extracts were prepared from both water decoction as well as methanolic extractions at 50%, 25% and 10%. All samples were evaporated under reduced pressure and reconstituted in either water or 2.5% ocean salt solution. Samples were subsequently filter sterilized. Results from these chemical screens and bioassays will be presented. Current results suggest that some extracts of Tz may increase survivorship in bioassaytest subjects.
In addition to characterizing the medicinal potential of Tz, a fundamental goal of this partnership is to increase STEM retention through mentored research experiences. For this reason, samples were prepared at the UW-Stout campus and some of the bioassays were performed at the UW-Manitowoc campus. This work is part of an NSF STEP grant-funded collaborative research initiative that links 2-year campus students with students working at a 4-year comprehensive campus.

Broader Impacts:

1 - University of Wisconsin - Stout, Biology, Menomonie, WI, 54751, USA
2 - University Of Wisconsin - Manitowoc, Biological Sciences, 705 Viebahn St., Manitowoc, WI, 54220, USA
3 - University of Wisconsin - Stout, Biology, 334G Jarvis Hall, Menomonie, WI, 54751, USA

Keywords:
Hmong
Medicinal plants
Tradescantia.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Khorassan Ballroom/Chase Park Plaza
Date: Monday, July 11th, 2011
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PPT006
Abstract ID:712