Anticancer potential of Panduratin A against non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide and ranks first in the number of cancer cases that occur in men and fourth in women in Jakarta.  Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for 15% of lung cancer cases, whereas non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 85% of instances. Exposure to carcinogens, heavy metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) increases lung cancer risk. Repeated exposure to carcinogens can cause genetic mutations by forming DNA adducts. Genetic mutations commonly occur in EGFR, the p53 tumor suppressor gene, and failure in apoptosis. Conventional therapy has limitations such as severe side effects, drug resistance, and treatment costs. Therefore, a new strategy is needed to use natural plant compounds as chemopreventive agents or to slow cancer growth. Panduratin A is a natural chalcone-derived compound isolated from fingerroot or Temu Kunci (Boesenbergia pandurata). This compound exerted various antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. Panduratin A's anticancer mechanisms included cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis, and anti-angiogenesis in several cancer cell lines. Panduratin A was also selectively cytotoxic and inhibited the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.