Cancer Inhibition by Neem Component
Elumalai et al investigated the effects of nimbolide found in a popular traditional medicine Neem (Azadirachta indica). Nimbolide is a component found in leaves and flowers of the neem tree and used in The Wise Herb Company range of natural products. In this instance the scientists investigated the effect of the Neem component on human breast cancer cells.
The Neem Tree: a miracle plant
The molecular mechanisms involved were studied on human breast cancer cell lines.
The cancer growth inhibitory effect of nimbolide was assessed and Apoptosis induction was determined
Treatment with the Neem component resulted in dose and time-dependent inhibition of growth of cancer cells. The occurrence of apoptosis in these cells was also suggested
They conclude that Nimbolide induces the cleavage of pro-caspase-8, pro-caspase-3 and PARP and induces apoptosis by both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways.
They suggest that the Neem component nimbolide exhibits anticancer effect through its apoptosis-inducing property and could be potentially used as a anticancer therapy.
