Shark cartilage as source of antiangiogenic compounds: from basic to clinical research

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is crucial for tumor growth beyond 1-2 mm.
• Antiangiogenic drugs offer a novel therapeutic strategy for cancer and other angiogenesis-dependent diseases.
• Cartilage, particularly shark cartilage, has been investigated as a natural source of antiangiogenic compounds due to its avascular nature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on the antiangiogenic and antitumor properties of shark cartilage and its extracts.
• To evaluate basic and clinical investigations assessing shark cartilage's therapeutic potential.
• To explore reasons for conflicting results in previous studies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Analysis of clinical trial data involving shark cartilage for cancer treatment.
• Examination of studies investigating the bioavailability and pharmacological effects of oral shark cartilage.

Main Results:

• Several studies suggest the presence of antiangiogenic and antitumor compounds in shark cartilage.
• Clinical trials using shark cartilage in cancer patients have yielded unsatisfactory outcomes.
• Limited data exists correlating oral shark cartilage bioavailability with observed pharmacological effects.

Conclusions:

• The therapeutic potential of shark cartilage for cancer and angiogenesis-dependent diseases remains uncertain.
• Conflicting results may stem from variations in cartilage extracts, bioavailability issues, and study design.
• Further rigorous research is needed to clarify the efficacy and optimal use of shark cartilage in cancer therapy.