Carvacrol-enriched Multi-component Oil Reduces Tumour Growth in a Triple-negative Breast Cancer Xenograft Model.

Abstract

Introduction: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer subtype associated with poor prognosis and limited targeted treatment options. Natural multicomponent formulations have emerged as promising complementary therapeutic approaches because of their ability to modulate multiple cancer-related pathways. To evaluate the antitumour efficacy and systemic effects of a carvacrol-enriched multi-component oil formulation (CMCO) in a xenograft mouse model of TNBC.

Methods: CMCO was characterized using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). BALB/c nude mice bearing MDA-MB-231 xenograft tumours were treated with CMCO orally (40 mg/kg) or by combined oral and topical administration for 40 days. Tumour progression was assessed histopathologically. Liver and kidney function tests, hematological parameters, and immune profiles were evaluated. Molecular mechanisms were investigated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction targeting genes associated with apoptosis, autophagy, oxidative stress, and vesicular transport.

Results: GC-MS analysis identified 30 phytochemical constituents, with carvacrol as the predominant compound. CMCO treatment reduced tumour cell density, improved stromal organization, and induced focal necrosis, particularly in the combined treatment group. Compared with cisplatin-treated animals, CMCO-treated mice exhibited a more favorable biochemical profile without evidence of hepatorenal toxicity. Gene expression analysis demonstrated upregulation of VPS29 and STK4 and modulation of CASP8, suggesting effects on apoptosis- and autophagy- related pathways.

Discussion: Recent patent activity involving carvacrol-rich formulations, monoterpene-based phytotherapeutics, and essential oil-derived bioactive compositions highlights growing translational and commercial interest in natural-product-based therapeutic strategies. The present findings provide preclinical evidence supporting the potential applicability of standardized multicomponent phytotherapeutic formulations in TNBC management.

Conclusion: CMCO demonstrated significant antitumour activity while maintaining a favorable safety profile in a TNBC xenograft model. These findings support further preclinical and clinical investigation of CMCO as a complementary therapeutic candidate for TNBC and contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the development of natural-product-based anticancer formulations.