Anticancer Activity of Diosgenin and Its Molecular Mechanism

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Oncology

Background:

• Diosgenin, a natural steroidal sapogenin from plants like Trigonella foenum-graecum, is recognized for its therapeutic potential.
• It has demonstrated activity against a wide spectrum of cancers, including oral, liver, lung, and prostate cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of diosgenin's anticancer effects based on in vivo, in vitro, and clinical research.
• To explore strategies for enhancing diosgenin's biological activity and bioavailability.

Main Methods:

• Review of preclinical (in vivo, in vitro) studies on diosgenin's mechanisms of action.
• Analysis of clinical investigations assessing diosgenin's dosage and safety.
• Examination of recent developments in diosgenin drug delivery and derivatives.

Main Results:

• Preclinical data indicate diosgenin inhibits tumor proliferation, induces apoptosis and autophagy, and reduces metastasis.
• Clinical studies suggest favorable dosage and safety profiles for diosgenin.
• Development of nano-drug carriers, combination therapies, and derivatives aims to improve efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Diosgenin exhibits broad-spectrum anticancer properties supported by preclinical and preliminary clinical evidence.
• Further rigorous clinical trials are essential to address limitations and fully realize diosgenin's therapeutic potential in cancer treatment.