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Artesunate as an emerging anticancer modality: Insights and advances
Frantisek Petrlak1, Vendula Jemelikova1, Anna Hanzlikova1
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, Brno CZ-613 00, Czech Republic.
Pharmacological Research
|June 23, 2026
Summary
Artesunate, an antimalarial drug, shows significant potential as an anticancer therapy. Its multiple mechanisms of action and favorable safety profile make it a promising candidate for various cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Artesunate is a well-established antimalarial drug known for efficacy and safety.
- Emerging evidence highlights artesunate's potent anticancer properties.
- Its therapeutic potential extends beyond malaria treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anticancer effects and mechanisms of artesunate.
- To explore its potential in various cancer types and therapeutic combinations.
- To identify future research directions and clinical applications.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of in vitro, preclinical, and clinical studies.
- Analysis of artesunate's multifaceted anticancer mechanisms.
- Evaluation of combination therapies and novel drug delivery systems.
Main Results:
- Artesunate inhibits tumor proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis.
- It induces apoptosis and autophagy, modulates the tumor microenvironment, and regulates immune responses.
- Positive outcomes observed in combination with other chemotherapies, especially for resistant tumors.
Conclusions:
- Artesunate demonstrates considerable potential as a cancer therapeutic agent.
- Further research into its pharmacology, toxicity, and resistance is warranted.
- Expansion of clinical use is supported by its efficacy and safety profile.
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