Cancer Studies

Characterization of Thymoquinone-Sulfobutylether-β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex for Anticancer Applications.

In this study, researchers investigated the potential of using Sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD) to improve the solubility and delivery of thymoquinone (TQ), a compound derived from black seed with therapeutic and anticancer properties. Through various analyses, they found that the inclusion complexes of TQ with SBE-β-CD significantly enhanced the solubility and bioavailability of TQ. Additionally, the complexes exhibited stronger anticancer effects on various cancer cell lines compared to TQ alone. These findings suggest that SBE-β-CD may serve as an effective drug delivery system for TQ, but more research is needed to explore its mechanisms and potential side effects.

Eid EEM et al (2023).
Molecules.
PubMed:
37241838

The Role of Bitter Melon in Breast and Gynecological Cancer Prevention and Therapy.

Bitter melon, a widely used plant-based treatment, has potent antitumor effects against various cancers. Surprisingly, there is no review on its role in breast and gynecological cancer prevention and therapy. Our comprehensive literature review addresses this gap and highlights the promising anticancer effects of bitter melon on breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer cells. This research provides valuable insights and suggests directions for future studies in this field.

Psilopatis I et al (2023).
Int J Mol Sci.
PubMed:
37240264

Piper nigrum Extract: Dietary Supplement for Reducing Mammary Tumor Incidence and Chemotherapy-Induced Toxicity.

A new dietary supplement, PFPE-CH, made from a mixture of cold-pressed coconut oil and honey, has shown promising results in reducing the risk of tumor formation and minimizing the side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs in breast cancer treatment. The toxicity study revealed no harmful effects at a high dosage, and long-term use did not impact kidney or liver function. In a cancer prevention study, PFPE-CH significantly decreased tumor incidence by up to 71.4% without adverse effects. Furthermore, PFPE-CH enhanced the effectiveness of chemotherapy while reducing its toxicity. These findings suggest that PFPE-CH is a safe and effective option for breast cancer treatment.

Mad-Adam N et al (2023).
Foods.
PubMed:
37238871

Aegle marvels (L.) Correa Leaf Essential Oil and Its Phytoconstituents as an Anticancer and Anti-Streptococcus mutans Agent.

Indian Bael leaves have been traditionally used for treating oral infections due to their anti-cancerous and antibacterial properties. A study explored the essential oil of these leaves and found that it contains the compound limonene, which showed significant anticancer activity against human oral epidermal carcinoma cells. The oil also exhibited antioxidant properties, inhibiting free radicals. Additionally, it showed anti-cariogenic effects, inhibiting the growth of bacteria associated with oral health issues. These findings suggest that Indian Bael leaves could be a valuable natural therapeutic agent for managing oral cancer and infections.

Aodah AH et al (2023).
Antibiotics (Basel).
PubMed:
37237738

Targeting bladder cancer with Trigonella foenum-graecum: a computational study using network pharmacology and molecular docking.

A new study has investigated the potential medical benefits of the ancient medicinal plant Trigonella foenum-graecum (TF-graecum). The study found that TF-graecum contains several active compounds that have antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, wound-healing, anti-diarrheal, hypoglycemic, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The study also identified potential targets for these compounds in bladder cancer treatment. Further research is needed to explore the potential pharmacological effects of TF-graecum. This research emphasizes the importance of studying traditional medicinal plants for their potential medical benefits.

Bitam S, Hamadache M and Hanini S (2023).
J Biomol Struct Dyn.
PubMed:
37232424

Exploring the therapeutic and anti-tumor properties of morusin: a review of recent advances.

Morusin, a compound found in mulberry tree bark, has diverse biological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, neuro-protective, and antioxidant capabilities. It has also shown promise as an anti-tumor agent against various types of cancers. Scientists are now investigating the potential of morusin as an alternative treatment for drug-resistant malignancies. Recent research has shed light on the therapeutic benefits of morusin, particularly in the context of human health and its anti-cancer effects. This review aims to provide an up-to-date discussion of morusin's role in cancer treatment, with a focus on and studies. These findings may pave the way for developing new polyphenolic medicines for cancer management.

Hafeez A et al (2023).
Front Mol Biosci.
PubMed:
37228582

Celery (Apium graveolens L.) Exosome-like Nanovesicles as a New-Generation Chemotherapy Drug Delivery Platform against Tumor Proliferation.

Celery exosome-like nanovesicles (CELNs) have emerged as a promising option for drug delivery due to their high cellular uptake efficiency. Compared to other plant-derived nanovesicles, CELNs showed better tolerance and less toxicity as biotherapeutic roles in mice models. Encapsulating doxorubicin (DOX) into CELNs resulted in a more efficient treatment for tumors compared to conventional synthetic carriers like liposome, both in vitro and in vivo. This study highlights the potential of CELNs as a new-generation drug delivery carrier with distinct advantages.

Lu X et al (2023).
J Agric Food Chem.
PubMed:
37222554

In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Evaluation of Mentha spicata L. and Matricaria chamomilla L. Essential Oils.

This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of pharma-grade essential oils, specifically spearmint and German chamomile. The oils were tested using enzyme assays and evaluated for their cytotoxic effects on various cell lines. The major components of the oils were identified, and their IC values were calculated. The essential oils were found to have no cytotoxic effects on healthy cells but increased apoptotic activity in cancer cells. Additionally, the oils showed selective inhibition of the COX-2 enzyme. These findings suggest a potential dual mode of action for the essential oils and warrant further investigation.

Biltekin SN et al (2023).
ACS Omega.
PubMed:
37214687