Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 27, 2026
An Orthotopic Murine Model of Human Prostate Cancer Metastasis
Published on: September 18, 2013
Experimental evidence for anti-metastatic actions of apigenin: a mini review
Hyeon-Muk Oh1,2, Chong-Kwan Cho1,2, Nam-Hun Lee1,3
1College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
Cancer metastasis is responsible for the majority of cancer-related deaths. Accordingly, to reduce metastasis remains a vital challenge in clinical practice, and phytochemicals have taken an attention as anti-metastatic agents. Apigenin, a plant flavone, showed anti-cancer effects against in various animal models, moreover its potentials inhibiting tumor metastasis have been reported. Herein, we analyzed the overall features at what apigenin inhibited metastasis and its action modes. We searched for articles in MEDLINE (Pubmed), EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) through March 2023. Total 6 animal studies presented anti-metastatic effects of apigenin using 5 difference experimental models, while the mechanisms involved modulations of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), angiogenesis, and various metastasis-related signaling pathways. This review provides an overall potential of apigenin as a candidate reducing the risk of cancer metastasis.
Insights
Apigenin, a plant flavone, shows potential in reducing cancer metastasis. This review analyzes its anti-metastatic effects and mechanisms, highlighting its promise as a natural therapeutic agent.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Natural Products
Background:
- Cancer metastasis is a primary cause of cancer-related mortality, presenting a significant clinical challenge.
- Phytochemicals are emerging as promising anti-metastatic agents.
- Apigenin, a naturally occurring flavone, exhibits documented anti-cancer properties and potential anti-metastatic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively analyze the features and mechanisms by which apigenin inhibits cancer metastasis.
- To evaluate the overall potential of apigenin as a preventative agent against cancer metastasis.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) up to March 2023.
- Inclusion of 6 animal studies that demonstrated the anti-metastatic effects of apigenin.
- Analysis of diverse experimental models and identified mechanisms of action.
Main Results:
- Apigenin demonstrated anti-metastatic effects across 5 different experimental models in the included studies.
- Key mechanisms involved the modulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).
- Apigenin's effects were linked to the regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), angiogenesis, and various metastasis-related signaling pathways.
Conclusions:
- Apigenin exhibits significant potential as an agent to reduce the risk of cancer metastasis.
- The anti-metastatic actions of apigenin are mediated through multiple molecular pathways, including EMT, MMPs, and angiogenesis.
- Further research into apigenin could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for preventing cancer spread.
