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SOURSOP IN CANCER ADJUVANT THERAPY

 


Annonaceous Acetogenins are the most valuable phytochemicals present in Soursop/ Laxmanphal, scientifically known as Annona muricata. Annonaceous acetogenins typically are derivatives of long chain fatty acids that are selectively toxic to Cancer cells, including multidrug resistant Cancer cells.

Scientific research carried out by Hadisaputri et al (2021) conclude that Annona muricata leaf extract is responsible for the induction of apoptosis of breast cancer cells. This apoptosis is majorly due to reduction in the integrity of mitochondrial cells.

Cancer cells may develop Multi Drug Resistance (MDR), a phenomenon in which Cancer cells develops resistivity against the the specific drug being used in the Cancer treatment. Acetogenins (ACG) in Soursop are found to be cytotoxic to these Drug Resistant Cancer cells. As a result, these Cancer cells undergo death and decay, preventing the spread of Cancer to other parts of body (Metastasis).

Annonaceous acetogenins induce cytotoxicity, at least in part, by inhibiting mitochondrial complex I, which is involved in oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis. As Cancer cells have a higher demand for ATP than the normal cells, mitochondrial complex I inhibitors therefore have great potential in Cancer therapy.

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