Adriana A Lopes, Juliana da Silva Coppede, Pedro de Pádua G Amatto, Davi Casale Aragon, Suzelei de Castro França, Fabio Carmona, Ana Maria S Pereira
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw) is a medicinal plant with documented immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent studies suggest potential anticancer effects, but evidence remains fragmented.
Objective: This systematic review aimed to assess the cytotoxic effects of different U. tomentosa extracts or fractions on normal and cancer cells, summarizing in vitro studies.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Scielo up to January 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria comprised in vitro studies evaluating U. tomentosa extracts or fractions on normal and cancer cells, reporting IC50 values or equivalent measures. Data on plant part, extraction method, and chemical composition were collected. Risk of bias was assessed using the modified CAMARADES checklist.
Results: Thirteen studies met the eligibility criteria. U. tomentosa extracts exhibited selective cytotoxicity in some cancer cell lines. The most promising findings were observed for crude aqueous bark extracts (72 h incubation) against squamous cell carcinoma and pentacyclic oxindole alkaloid (POA)-rich extracts against prostate cancer and leukemia. In contrast, tetracyclic oxindole alkaloid (TOA)- and proanthocyanidin (PAC)-rich fractions showed limited cytotoxicity. Most extracts were non-toxic to normal cells, except for the crude aqueous bark extract, which exhibited cytotoxicity in keratinocytes.
Conclusion: U. tomentosa has potential as a source of selective anticancer agents, particularly through crude aqueous bark and POA-rich extracts. The observed cytotoxic effects vary considerably depending on the extraction method and chemical composition, underscoring the need for standardization in future studies. Further standardized studies and mechanistic investigations are required to validate its therapeutic potential for cancer treatment.
期刊介绍：
Frontiers in Pharmacology is a leading journal in its field, publishing rigorously peer-reviewed research across disciplines, including basic and clinical pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmacy and toxicology. Field Chief Editor Heike Wulff at UC Davis is supported by an outstanding Editorial Board of international researchers. This multidisciplinary open-access journal is at the forefront of disseminating and communicating scientific knowledge and impactful discoveries to researchers, academics, clinicians and the public worldwide.
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