Cinnamon in Anticancer Armamentarium: A Molecular Approach

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry
• Oncology

Background:

• Natural bioactive compounds are increasingly recognized for their anticancer properties.
• Cinnamon, a common spice, possesses significant anticarcinogenic efficacy.
• Its active components demonstrate antineoplastic activity across various cancer types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms of cinnamon's action against cancer.
• To explore cinnamon's role in modulating oncogenic regulators and pathways.
• To assess the potential of cinnamon in cancer treatment and prevention.

Main Methods:

• Literature search of Google Scholar, Medline, and PubMed databases.
• Inclusion of English-language, peer-reviewed articles published between 2003 and 2017.
• Focus on studies detailing molecular mechanisms and anticarcinogenic effects.

Main Results:

• Cinnamon and its components exhibit significant antineoplastic activity.
• The efficacy of cinnamon varies by cancer type and specific compound administered.
• Active cinnamon components can enhance the chemosensitivity of existing anticancer drugs.

Conclusions:

• Cinnamon possesses potent anticancer properties with diverse molecular mechanisms.
• Its active compounds can act as chemosensitizers, improving conventional cancer therapy.
• Cinnamon warrants further investigation for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications in cancer management.