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Review on molecular and therapeutic potential of thymoquinone in cancer

Sanjeev Banerjee1, Subhash Padhye, Asfar Azmi

  • 1Department of Pathology and Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA.

Nutrition and Cancer
|October 7, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Thymoquinone (TQ), from black seed oil, shows promise in cancer therapy by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting tumor growth. Further research into its bioavailability and toxicity is needed for clinical trials.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology
  • Natural Products

Background:

  • Thymoquinone (TQ) is the main active compound in Nigella sativa (black seed oil).
  • TQ has demonstrated anti-cancer properties in preclinical studies.
  • Its molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential are under investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the molecular mechanisms of Thymoquinone (TQ) in cancer.
  • To evaluate TQ's efficacy in inducing apoptosis and inhibiting tumor growth.
  • To explore TQ's potential as a chemosensitizer and in developing novel analogs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of preclinical studies on Thymoquinone (TQ).
  • Analysis of TQ's effects on apoptosis signaling, angiogenesis, and cell cycle.
  • Examination of TQ's chemosensitization potential and analog development.

Main Results:

  • TQ exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and inhibits cancer cell proliferation.
  • TQ modulates apoptosis, angiogenesis, and cell cycle arrest, leading to tumor growth inhibition.
  • In vitro studies suggest TQ can enhance chemosensitivity, especially in resistant cancer cells.

Conclusions:

  • Thymoquinone (TQ) shows significant potential in cancer therapy due to its multifaceted mechanisms.
  • Novel TQ analogs are being developed for enhanced anti-cancer effects.
  • Further research, including human bioavailability and Phase I toxicity studies, is crucial for clinical application.

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