Hydroalcoholic Extract of Cuscuta chinensis Suppresses Angiogenesis and Enhances Paclitaxel Activity in the Chick Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) Model Cuscuta Anti Angiogenic
Abstract
Background: With the growing resistance of cancers to conventional therapies, there is increasing interest in identifying natural compounds with potent anticancer properties. Cuscuta chinensis, a valuable herb in traditional medicine, has attracted attention for its potential therapeutic effects. Given the critical role of angiogenesis in tumor growth and metastasis, the discovery of effective anti-angiogenic agents is essential. The chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model is a well-established system for studying angiogenesis. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-angiogenic effects of hydroalcoholic extract of C. chinensis on the CAM model.
Methods: This case-control experimental study included six groups of fertilized eggs: control groups and treatment groups receiving paclitaxel (40 µg/kg), C. chinensis extract (100 and 400 mg/ml), and a combination of paclitaxel and extract. Treatments were administered on day 8 of incubation. Angiogenesis was assessed using morphological parameters (number and thickness of major and minor vascular branches measured by ImageJ software) and molecular analysis of VEGF gene expression using real-time PCR. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software.
Results: The extract significantly reduced angiogenic parameters in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). Paclitaxel showed stronger inhibition of major vessel formation and enhanced the extract’s effects. Both treatments significantly decreased VEGF expression, with the combination producing greater inhibition.
Conclusion: C. chinensis extract exhibits significant anti-angiogenic activity in the CAM model and may potentiate the effects of paclitaxel.
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