Selective Cytotoxic Effect of Astaxanthin on Human Lung and Colon Cancer Cells

Cancer is a complex disease, ranking among the top causes of mortality worldwide. There are numerous therapies available however, they are showing limited success in a complete cure. The advanced treatment regime includes immunotherapy that improves the body's natural defences. The approved immunotherapies are imiquimod (Zyclara® ), lenalidomide (Revlimid® ) pomalidomide (Pomalyst® ), and thalidomide (Thalomid® ). However, these therapies have severe side effects like nausea, high blood pressure, blood clot, severe allergies, etc. Hence, natural products with immunomodulatory properties are being widely used as adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment. Plant secondary metabolites, such as curcumin, resveratrol, zerumbone, quercetin, genistein and betulinic acid, which are used as a member of the cancer medications and possess immunomodulatory potential, have been described in this chapter. We have discussed the mode of action, in vitro, in vivo, formulation studies and plant source of these natural immunomodulators. This chapter also discusses the current state of these pure compounds in context to their development as anticancer treatments in the future.

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Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Astaxanthin on Gastrointestinal Diseases

Lee

Kim

2022

IJMS

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A moderate amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is produced under normal conditions, where they play an important role in cell signaling and are involved in many aspects of the immune response to pathogens. On the other hand, the excessive production of ROS destructs macromolecules, cell membranes, and DNA, and activates pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, which may lead to various pathologic conditions. Gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa is constantly exposed to ROS due to the presence of bacteria and other infectious pathogens in food, as well as alcohol consumption, smoking, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). Prolonged excessive oxidative stress and inflammation are two major risk factors for GI disorders such as ulcers and cancers. Bioactive food compounds with potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity have been tested in experimental GI disease models to evaluate their therapeutic potential. Astaxanthin (AST) is a fat-soluble xanthophyll carotenoid that is naturally present in algae, yeast, salmon, shrimp, and krill. It has been shown that AST exhibits protective effects against GI diseases via multiple mechanisms. Residing at the surface and inside of cell membranes, AST directly neutralizes ROS and lipid peroxyl radicals, enhances the activity of anti-oxidant enzymes, and suppresses pro-inflammatory transcription factors and cytokines. In addition, AST has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and metastasis via modulating cell proliferation-related pathways, apoptosis, and autophagy. Considering the potential benefits of AST in GI diseases, this review paper aims to summarize recent advances in AST research, focusing on its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects against gastric and intestinal ulcers and cancers.

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Selective Cytotoxic Effect of Astaxanthin on Human Lung and Colon Cancer Cells

Cited by 5 publications

References 37 publications

Functional foods and cancer prevention

Functional foods and cancer prevention

Natural Immunomodulators in Cancer Therapy

Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Astaxanthin on Gastrointestinal Diseases

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