Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R. Br. ex Schult as natural bioactive products: An evidence-based review focused on inflammation related cancer prevention potential

Plant-derived bioactive products and their structural diversity have made a significant contribution to various pharmacological activities including cancer and other infectious diseases. Application of natural products and their derivatives in multi-faceted anti-cancer effects and advanced disease management is extensively under consideration at the level of primary, secondary and tertiary care prevention. Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R. Br. ex Schult belongs to the family Apocynaceae and extensively used in poly-herbal preparations and several biological activities. The connection between chronic inflammation and cancer has drawn considerable interest and acceptance. The activation of genes that regulate cell signaling pathways associated with inflammation can take control over various aspects of the disease process. Among the various signaling pathways (STAT-3, HIF-1, NF-κB, IL-1, Cox-2, TNF-α, and oncogenic Kinase (P13k, IKK, IRAK1/4, JAK, MARK/ERK, and Syk/Src) are essential for establishing a connection between inflammation and cancer. Due to this theoretical basis, the inflammatory response to cancer has emerged as the center of attention for novel preventive and therapeutic approaches. To reduce inflammation, immunomodulatory medications are often used in cancer therapy. Although considering the adverse reactions associated with synthetic immunomodulatory substances and cytotoxic cancer drugs, it is essential to explore the development of innovative anti-inflammatory agents to enhance cancer treatment. Several reports suggest that bioactive phytochemicals obtained from H. indicus demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties in the context of cancer. There is a need for further investigation into the cellular processes underlying anti-inflammatory effects of H. indicus, in order to develop a comprehensive understanding of its potential in cancer treatment. However, many phytochemicals need to be further explored for their application in biomedical treatments. Moreover, studies regarding molecular mechanisms and mode of action, effective and safe doses of H. indicus, and its phytochemicals for the treatment of inflammation associated with cancer and other pharmacological activities needs to be explored. Overall, the present review describes and concludes the role of H. indicus to investigate the mechanism and to improve the cancer prevention. In addition, safety, toxicity and clinical evaluation is also discussed.