Aralia elata: Difference between revisions

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{{Short description|Process by which immune cells display antigens to T cells}}
{{Short description|Species of flowering plant}}
{{Immunology}}
{{Taxobox
| name = Aralia elata
| image = Aralia_elata_en_fleur4081.jpg
| image_caption = ''Aralia elata'' in bloom
| regnum = [[Plantae]]
| unranked_divisio = [[Angiosperms]]
| unranked_classis = [[Eudicots]]
| unranked_ordo = [[Asterids]]
| ordo = [[Apiales]]
| familia = [[Araliaceae]]
| genus = ''[[Aralia]]''
| species = '''''A. elata'''''
| binomial = ''Aralia elata''
| binomial_authority = ([[Miq.]]) [[Seem.]]
}}


'''Antigen presentation''' is a crucial process in the immune system that involves the display of [[antigen]]s on the surface of [[antigen-presenting cell]]s (APCs) to be recognized by [[T cell]]s. This process is essential for the activation of T cells and the initiation of the adaptive immune response.
'''''Aralia elata''''', commonly known as the [[Japanese angelica tree]], is a species of flowering plant in the family [[Araliaceae]]. It is native to [[East Asia]], including [[China]], [[Korea]], and [[Japan]]. This deciduous shrub or small tree is known for its striking appearance and culinary uses.


==Mechanism==
==Description==
Antigen presentation involves the processing of antigens and their presentation on [[major histocompatibility complex]] (MHC) molecules. There are two main pathways of antigen presentation: the MHC class I pathway and the MHC class II pathway.
''Aralia elata'' typically grows to a height of 3 to 10 meters. It has a distinctive appearance with a straight trunk and large compound leaves that can reach up to 1 meter in length. The leaves are bipinnate, with each leaflet being ovate and serrated. In late summer, the plant produces large clusters of small white flowers, which are followed by purplish-black berries.


===MHC Class I Pathway===
[[File:Japanese_taranome_2015.jpg|thumb|right|Japanese taranome]]
[[File:MHC Class I processing.svg|thumb|right|Diagram of MHC Class I antigen processing]]
The MHC class I pathway presents endogenous antigens, which are typically derived from proteins synthesized within the cell. These antigens are processed by the [[proteasome]] into peptide fragments. The peptides are then transported into the [[endoplasmic reticulum]] by the [[TAP (transporter associated with antigen processing)|TAP]] complex, where they bind to MHC class I molecules. The peptide-MHC class I complexes are transported to the cell surface, where they can be recognized by [[CD8+ T cell]]s.


===MHC Class II Pathway===
==Habitat and Distribution==
[[File:MHC2.svg|thumb|right|Diagram of MHC Class II antigen processing]]
''Aralia elata'' is found in a variety of habitats, including forest edges, open woodlands, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. The species is widely distributed across its native range in East Asia and has been introduced to other regions, including parts of North America and Europe.
The MHC class II pathway presents exogenous antigens, which are typically derived from extracellular proteins. These antigens are taken up by APCs through [[endocytosis]] or [[phagocytosis]] and are processed in [[endosome]]s and [[lysosome]]s. The resulting peptides are loaded onto MHC class II molecules within the endosomal compartments. The peptide-MHC class II complexes are then transported to the cell surface, where they can be recognized by [[CD4+ T cell]]s.


==Antigen-Presenting Cells==
==Culinary Uses==
The primary antigen-presenting cells are [[dendritic cell]]s, [[macrophage]]s, and [[B cell]]s. Each of these cell types has specialized functions in antigen presentation and T cell activation.
In Japan, the young shoots of ''Aralia elata'', known as [[taranome]], are considered a delicacy. They are often harvested in the spring and used in [[tempura]] dishes. The shoots have a unique flavor and are prized for their tender texture.


* '''Dendritic cells''' are the most potent APCs and are essential for the initiation of T cell responses. They capture antigens in peripheral tissues and migrate to [[lymph node]]s to present antigens to T cells.
[[File:Dureup.jpg|thumb|left|Dureup, the young shoots of ''Aralia elata'']]
* '''Macrophages''' are involved in the presentation of antigens to T cells in tissues and are important for the activation of [[helper T cell]]s.
* '''B cells''' can present antigens to T cells, particularly in the context of [[humoral immunity]].


==Role in Immune Response==
==Cultivation==
Antigen presentation is critical for the activation of T cells, which are central to the adaptive immune response. The recognition of peptide-MHC complexes by T cell receptors (TCRs) leads to T cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation into effector cells. This process is essential for the clearance of pathogens and the development of immunological memory.
''Aralia elata'' is cultivated both for its ornamental value and its edible shoots. It is relatively easy to grow and can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. The plant is valued in gardens for its dramatic foliage and attractive flowers.


==Related pages==
==Ecological Impact==
* [[Major histocompatibility complex]]
While ''Aralia elata'' is appreciated for its beauty and culinary uses, it can become invasive in some regions outside its native range. It is important to manage its growth to prevent it from outcompeting native vegetation.
* [[T cell receptor]]
* [[Adaptive immune system]]
* [[Dendritic cell]]


==Gallery==
==Related Pages==
<gallery>
* [[Araliaceae]]
File:Antigen presentation.svg|Diagram of antigen presentation
* [[Angiosperms]]
File:MHC Class I processing.svg|Diagram of MHC Class I antigen processing
* [[Eudicots]]
File:MHC2.svg|Diagram of MHC Class II antigen processing
* [[Apiales]]
</gallery>


[[Category:Immunology]]
[[Category:Araliaceae]]
[[Category:Immune system]]
[[Category:Flora of East Asia]]
<gallery>
[[Category:Edible plants]]
File:Aralia_elata_en_fleur4081.jpg|Aralia elata in bloom
[[Category:Invasive plant species]]
File:Japanese_taranome_2015.jpg|Japanese taranome
File:Dureup.jpg|Dureup
File:Dureup-sukhoe.jpg|Dureup sukhoe
File:Korean_cuisine-Dureup_bugak_and_Chal_jeonbyeong.jpg|Dureup bugak and Chal jeonbyeong
File:Dureup-gaji-jeon.jpg|Dureup gaji jeon
File:Dureup-jeon_2.jpg|Dureup jeon
File:Sungeo-dureup-doenjang-mayo-muchim.jpg|Sungeo dureup doenjang mayo muchim
File:Aralia-elata-Philadelphia.jpg|Aralia elata in Philadelphia
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 11:19, 23 March 2025

Species of flowering plant



Aralia elata, commonly known as the Japanese angelica tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae. It is native to East Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. This deciduous shrub or small tree is known for its striking appearance and culinary uses.

Description[edit]

Aralia elata typically grows to a height of 3 to 10 meters. It has a distinctive appearance with a straight trunk and large compound leaves that can reach up to 1 meter in length. The leaves are bipinnate, with each leaflet being ovate and serrated. In late summer, the plant produces large clusters of small white flowers, which are followed by purplish-black berries.

Japanese taranome

Habitat and Distribution[edit]

Aralia elata is found in a variety of habitats, including forest edges, open woodlands, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. The species is widely distributed across its native range in East Asia and has been introduced to other regions, including parts of North America and Europe.

Culinary Uses[edit]

In Japan, the young shoots of Aralia elata, known as taranome, are considered a delicacy. They are often harvested in the spring and used in tempura dishes. The shoots have a unique flavor and are prized for their tender texture.

Dureup, the young shoots of Aralia elata

Cultivation[edit]

Aralia elata is cultivated both for its ornamental value and its edible shoots. It is relatively easy to grow and can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. The plant is valued in gardens for its dramatic foliage and attractive flowers.

Ecological Impact[edit]

While Aralia elata is appreciated for its beauty and culinary uses, it can become invasive in some regions outside its native range. It is important to manage its growth to prevent it from outcompeting native vegetation.

Related Pages[edit]