Antibacterial activity of a novel fatty acid (14E, 18E, 22E, 26E)-methyl nonacosa-14, 18, 22, 26 tetraenoate isolated from Amaranthus spinosus

Phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of genus Amaranthus

The variety of bioactive compounds found in different species of Amaranthus, an herb that is a staple food in many parts of India. The plethora of herb Amaranthus has been a rich source of bioactive compounds like essential oils, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenes, phenolic acids, flavonoids, etc. The traditional uses of Amaranthus, spp. have been established scientifically and were shown due to the presence of different phytochemicals. Although the pharmacological activities of Amaranthus genus have been well-documented, further studies are needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and clinical applications. In conclusion, the phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of genus Amaranthus make it a promising source of natural products for drug discovery and development. The present is review mainly concise to the ethnopharmacological relevance and pharmacological studies of Amaranthus species. This conclusive review work may on Amaranthus species provided the interconnection of bioactive molecules with its ethno pharmacological utility of plant species.

Phytochemicals as an Alternative or Integrative Option, in Conjunction with Conventional Treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Simple Summary

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is globally ranked as the sixth most diagnosed cancer, and the second most deadly cancer. To worsen matters, there are only limited therapeutic options currently available; therefore, it is necessary to find a reservoir from which new HCC treatments may be acquired. The field of phytomedicine may be the solution to this problem, as it offers an abundance of plant-derived molecules, which show capabilities of being effective against HCC proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastasis. In our review, we collect and analyze current evidence regarding these promising phytochemical effects on HCC, and delve into their potential as future chemotherapies. Additionally, information on the signaling behind these numerous phytochemicals is provided, in an attempt to understand their mechanisms. This review makes accessible the current body of knowledge pertaining to phytochemicals as HCC treatments, in order to serve as a reference and inspiration for further research into this subject.

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most abundant form of liver cancer. It accounts for 75–85% of liver cancer cases and, though it ranks globally as the sixth most common cancer, it ranks second in cancer-related mortality. Deaths from HCC are usually due to metastatic spread of the cancer. Unfortunately, there are many challenges and limitations with the latest HCC therapies and medications, making it difficult for patients to receive life-prolonging care. As there is clearly a high demand for alternative therapy options for HCC, it is prudent to turn to plants for the solution, as their phytochemicals have long been used and revered for their many medicinal purposes. This review explores the promising phytochemical compounds identified from pre-clinical and clinical trials being used either independently or in conjunction with already existing cancer therapy treatments. The phytochemicals discussed in this review were classified into several categories: lipids, polyphenols, alkaloids, polysaccharides, whole extracts, and phytochemical combinations. Almost 80% of the compounds failed to progress into clinical studies due to lack of information regarding the toxicity to normal cells and bioavailability. Although large obstacles remain, phytochemicals can be used either as an alternative or integrative therapy in conjunction with existing HCC chemotherapies. In conclusion, phytochemicals have great potential as treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma.