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Thymoquinone Modulates Gene Expression Associated with Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer: A Preclinical Systematic

Muhammad Evy Prastiyanto1, Kuncara Nata Waskita2, Rina Nurmaulawati2

  • 1Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Health and Nursing Science, Universitas Muhammadiyah Semarang, Semarang, 50273, Indonesia.

Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention : APJCP
|July 29, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Thymoquinone (TQ) shows promise in fighting colorectal cancer (CRC) by promoting cancer cell death. This review confirms TQ increases pro-apoptotic markers (BAX, CASP3) and decreases anti-apoptotic markers (BCL2) in CRC models.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health concern.
  • Thymoquinone (TQ), derived from Nigella sativa, exhibits anticancer properties by inducing apoptosis.
  • Understanding TQ's effects on apoptosis-regulating markers is crucial for CRC research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and meta-analyze the impact of TQ on pro-apoptotic (BAX, CASP3) and anti-apoptotic (BCL2) markers in colorectal cancer.
  • To quantify the effects of TQ on these key apoptosis markers in various CRC models.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature search across Scopus, BASE, PubMed, and Web of Science (2004-2025).
  • Inclusion of in vitro and in vivo studies reporting BAX, BCL2, and CASP3 expression data.
  • Random-effects model meta-analysis to calculate effect sizes (g) and assess heterogeneity and publication bias.

Main Results:

  • Meta-analysis of 10 studies showed TQ significantly upregulated BAX (mRNA: g=3.901, protein: g=4.232) and CASP3 (mRNA: g=5.669, protein: g=6.336).
  • TQ significantly downregulated BCL2 (mRNA: g=-3.680, protein: g=-3.328) across various CRC cell lines.
  • Low to moderate heterogeneity and low/non-significant publication bias were observed.

Conclusions:

  • TQ demonstrates pro-apoptotic effects in colorectal cancer models by upregulating BAX and CASP3 and downregulating BCL2.
  • These findings suggest TQ's potential therapeutic relevance in CRC treatment.
  • Further in vivo and early-phase clinical studies are warranted to confirm translational significance and treatment implications.
Keywords:
BCL2BaxCASP3Colorectal carcinomathymoquinone

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