CancerPlant

Anti-Cancer Properties of Boswellic Acids

Introduction

• Increasing interest in plant-based medications for cancer treatment.

• Boswellic acids (BAs) derived from the frankincense resin are noted for potential anti-cancer properties.

• Main sources include Boswellia serrata, B. carteri, B. sacra, and B. papyrifera.

Characteristics of Boswellic Acids

• Boswellic acids are pentacyclic triterpenes with diverse therapeutic potential.

• Extracted from the oleogum resin, they possess properties such as:

  • Anti-inflammatory

  • Antimicrobial

  • Antitumor effects.

Types of Boswellic Acids

• Major types include:

  • β-Boswellic Acid (β-BA)

  • 11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid (KBA)

  • Acetyl-β-Boswellic Acid (ABA)

  • Acetyl-11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid (AKBA)

• Variations in efficacy among different BAs (e.g., KBA and AKBA are noted for strong anti-inflammatory effects).

Mechanisms of Action

• BAs exhibit anti-cancer actions through several pathways:

  • Inducing apoptosis in cancer cells.

  • Preventing metastasis by inhibiting angiogenesis.

  • Blocking cellular proliferation through the regulation of specific signaling pathways.

Anti-Cancer Mechanisms

• BAs target multiple pathways:

  • Inhibition of Topoisomerases: interferes with cancer cell growth and DNA replication.

  • Reduction of Cytokine Production: especially relevant in inflammatory-derived cancers.

Semi-Synthetic Derivatives of Boswellic Acids

• Enhancements through chemical modifications to improve anti-cancer efficacy.

• Examples of derivatives:

  • 3-O-naproxen-β-Boswellic Acid: anti-inflammatory properties.

  • 2,3-Dehydro-11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid: cytotoxic effects.

• Modifications can increase bioavailability and therapeutic potential.

Studies Supporting the Efficacy

• Significant anti-cancer properties documented across various studies:

  • BAs demonstrated inhibitory effects against breast, prostate, colorectal, and leukemia cancers.

  • Various studies focused on apoptotic signaling pathways activated by BAs.

Preclinical and Clinical Evidence

• In vivo and in vitro assessments validate the cancer-fighting potential of BAs:

  • E.g., AKBA induced apoptosis in triple-negative breast cancer cell lines and mice models.

  • BAs suppress tumor growth by modulating miRNA pathways and inhibiting glycolysis.

Conclusion

• Boswellic acids are effective against a spectrum of cancer types with minimal resistance.

• Ongoing research aims to enhance knowledge and application of BAs in clinical settings.

• In vitro production methods and conservation techniques are critical for sustainability and research into BAs.

• Additional clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy and safety of presented therapies.