Anticancer and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Betalains: A Systematic Review on Preclinical Studies

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Nutraceuticals

Background:

• Betalains are water-soluble pigments found in plants of the Caryophyllales order, notably beetroot.
• While betalains exhibit promising anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, systematic evaluations of their bioactivity and mechanisms are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize preclinical in vitro and in vivo evidence on the bioactivity and mechanisms of betalains.
• To evaluate the potential of betalains as therapeutic agents for cancer and inflammation management.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major scientific databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley, Taylor & Francis) for studies published between 2015 and 2025.
• 25 studies meeting PRISMA guidelines were included, with risk of bias assessed using multiple tools.
• The review was registered in PROSPERO (ID 1172411).

Main Results:

• Betalains demonstrated inhibition of cancer cell viability and proliferation, with specific IC50 values noted for colorectal cancer cell lines.
• Mechanisms include induction of apoptosis via caspase activation, G2/M phase arrest in lung cancer cells, and regulation of key genes (p53, Bax, Bcl-2).
• Anti-inflammatory effects were observed through suppression of NF-κB signaling, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6), and enzymes (COX-2, iNOS), alongside enhanced antioxidant defenses.

Conclusions:

• Betalains are safe, food-derived compounds with demonstrated potential in managing cancer and inflammation based on preclinical evidence.
• Further well-designed clinical trials are essential to establish the efficacy and therapeutic applications of betalains in humans.