Anglo-Japanese yew
Taxus ×media
Taxus ×media, also known as yew hybrid, is a traditional medicine with origins in East Asia. While it has not been traditionally used for any specific medicinal purposes, studies have shown promise in its potential applications. Research indicates that the plant contains enzymes involved in paclitaxel biosynthesis, including novel C1β-hydroxylase and dioxygenase activities, which could be significant for cancer treatment research. Five new 14-oxygenated taxanes were isolated from Taxus ×media cell cultures, one of which demonstrated potential cytotoxic activity against cervical carcinoma cells. The study also developed a cellulose-based material that can selectively enrich paclitaxel from plant extracts. Currently, there is no recorded evidence of major safety issues or drug interactions associated with this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study reports the discovery and characterization of enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of taxanes, including a novel C1β-hydroxylase and a dioxygenase.
- The study identified and characterized a 13-Lipoxygenase (TmLOX13) in Taxus media, linking it to paclitaxel biosynthesis.
- Five new 14-oxygenated taxanes were isolated from Taxus × media cell cultures, and one showed potential cytotoxic activity.
- The study developed a dual-responsive material capable of selectively enriching paclitaxel from plant extracts.
Frequently asked questions
What is Anglo-Japanese yew?
Anglo-Japanese yew (Taxus ×media) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Anglo-Japanese yew?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Anglo-Japanese yew; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study reports the discovery and characterization of enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of taxanes, including a novel C1β-hydroxylase and a dioxygenase.
How strong is the evidence for Anglo-Japanese yew?
The strongest finding for Anglo-Japanese yew carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Anglo-Japanese yew safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Anglo-Japanese yew in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Anglo-Japanese yew interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Anglo-Japanese yew in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Anglo-Japanese yew a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Cellulose-based molecularly imprinted core-shell microspheres with dual environment responsiveness for specific recognition and enrichment of paclitaxel. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Five new 14-oxygenated taxanes from the cell cultures of Taxus × media. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Novel α-KG/Fe(II)-Dependent Dioxygenases Catalyzing C1β-Hydroxylation and Construction of 5/7/6-Skeleton of Highly Oxygenated Taxoids. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A new 13-lipoxygenase from Taxus media callus is functionally linked to paclitaxel biosynthesis. literature abstract metadata