Plants still give us powerful molecules.
Researchers keep finding new plant compounds that show anticancer activity.
Some are moving from lab tests into animal studies or early human trials.
- Withaferin A
This compound comes from Withania somnifera.
It slows cancer cell growth by hitting many cancer pathways.
It can affect proteasomes, heat shock proteins, and cell metabolism.
Researchers are studying ways to improve its stability and delivery.
- Berberine
Berberine is an alkaloid found in several medicinal plants.
It can block tumor growth and change cancer cell metabolism.
New work uses nanoparticles to deliver berberine more effectively.
These nano-formulations improve targeting and reduce side effects in animals.
- Sulforaphane
Sulforaphane comes from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli.
It can turn on the body’s own detox systems.
Early clinical work shows it may lower markers linked to cancer risk.
Scientists are testing it as a co-treatment to protect normal tissue during chemotherapy.
- Artemisinin and derivatives
Artemisinin is famous as an antimalarial.
Its derivatives also kill cancer cells by creating oxidative stress.
Studies show activity against lung, colorectal, and other cancers.
Some derivatives are now in early clinical testing for cancer.
- Semisynthetic and modified phytochemicals
Chemists are tweaking plant molecules to make them work better as drugs.
These semisynthetic versions aim for greater potency and stability.
A growing number of such molecules are in preclinical and clinical pipelines.
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MBH/PS