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Review
. 2014:2014:724658.
doi: 10.1155/2014/724658. Epub 2014 May 18.

Therapeutic Implications of Black Seed and Its Constituent Thymoquinone in the Prevention of Cancer through Inactivation and Activation of Molecular Pathways

Arshad H Rahmani  1 , Mohammad A Alzohairy  1 , Masood A Khan  2 , Salah M Aly  3
Affiliations
Review

Therapeutic Implications of Black Seed and Its Constituent Thymoquinone in the Prevention of Cancer through Inactivation and Activation of Molecular Pathways

Arshad H Rahmani et al. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2014.

Abstract

The cancer is probably the most dreaded disease in both men and women and also major health problem worldwide. Despite its high prevalence, the exact molecular mechanisms of the development and progression are not fully understood. The current chemotherapy/radiotherapy regime used to treat cancer shows adverse side effect and may alter gene functions. Natural products are generally safe, effective, and less expensive substitutes of anticancer chemotherapeutics. Based on previous studies of their potential therapeutic uses, Nigella sativa and its constituents may be proved as good therapeutic options in the prevention of cancer. Black seeds are used as staple food in the Middle Eastern Countries for thousands of years and also in the treatment of diseases. Earlier studies have shown that N. sativa and its constituent thymoquinone (TQ) have important roles in the prevention and treatment of cancer by modulating cell signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize the role of N. sativa and its constituents TQ in the prevention of cancer through the activation or inactivation of molecular cell signaling pathways.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
N. sativa shows an important role in the management of various diseases.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Chemical structure of active ingredients of Nigella sativa.
Figure 3
Figure 3
N. sativa shows a vital effect in the prevention of cancer through upregulation of tumor suppressor gene and inhibition of VEGF, Akt/PI3K pathways.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Thymoquinone shows a vital role in prevention of cancer via modulation of phase I and phase II enzymes.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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