Research - cancer
A homeopathic nosode, Hepatitis C 30 demonstrates anticancer effect against liver cancer cells in vitro by modulating telomerase and topoisomerase II activities as also by promoting apoptosis via intrinsic mitochondrial pathway
Abstract
Objective
Homeopathic nosodes have seldom been scientifically validated for their anticancer effects. This study was conducted to examine if a recently developed hepatitis C nosode has demonstrable anticancer potential in cancer cells in vitro.
Methods
Anticancer effects of Hepatitis C 30C (Hep C 30), if any, were initially tested on three cancer cell lines, HepG2 (liver cancer), MCF-7 (breast cancer) and A549 (lung cancer) and one normal liver cell line WRL-68 cells and subsequently a more thorough study using further scientific protocols was undertaken on HepG2 cells (against WRL-68 cells as the normal control) as HepG2 cells showed better anticancer response than the other two. Three doses, one at 50% lethal dose (LD50) and the other two below LD50, were used on HepG2 cells subsequently. Protocols like apoptosis induction and its possible signaling mechanism were deployed using immunoblots of relevant signal proteins and confocal microscopy, with particular reference to telomerase and topoisomerase II (Top II) activities, two strong cancer biomarkers for their direct relationship with divisional activities of cells and DNAs.
Results
Hep C 30 induced apoptosis, caused distorted cell morphology typical of apoptotic cells, increased reactive oxygen species generation and produced increased DNA nicks. Further it enhanced pro-apototic signal proteins like Bax, cytochrome c and inhibited anti-apoptotic signal proteins, Bcl-2, cytochrome c and caspase-3, changed mitochondrial membrane potential and caused externalization of phosphatidylserine. The drug also decreased expression of two cancer biomarkers, Top II and telomerase, consistent with its anticancer effect.
Conclusion
Hep C 30 has demonstrable anticancer effects against liver cancer cells in vitro.
Source : Journal of Integrative Medicine
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Psorinum 6× triggers apoptosis signals in human lung cancer cells
1.Jesmin Mondal (Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741235, India )
2.Asmita Samadder (Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741235, India )
3.Anisur Rahman Khuda-Bukhsh (Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741235, India )
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To provide in vitro evidence of Psorinum treatment against cancer cells in a controlled study.
METHODS: Effects of homeopathic Psorinum 6× on cell viability were initially determined in several cancer cell lines, including A549, HepG2 and MCF-7, using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and an ethanol 6× control. The cell line that exhibited highest inhibition was selected and used in the following experiments. A range of Psorinum 6× doses was used to explore treatment effects on cell cycle arrest, cell death (apoptosis), generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and change in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy, respectively. Expression of several signal proteins related to apoptosis and cell survival were quantified with Western blotting and confocal microscopy. Further, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy was used to determine possible drug-DNA interactions, as well as the induction of conformational changes.
RESULTS: Treatment of cancer cell lines with Psorinum showed greater anticancer effects in A549 cells than in others. In A549 cells Psorinum treatment inhibited cell proliferation at 24 h after treatment, and arrested cell cycle at sub-G1 stage. It also induced ROS generation, MMP depolarization, morphological changes and DNA damage, as well as externalization of phosphatidyl serine. Further, increases in p53 expression, Bax expression, cytochrome c release, along with reduction of Bcl-2 level and caspase-3 activation were observed after Psorinum 6× treatment, which eventually drove A549 cells towards the mitochondria-mediated caspase-3-dependent pathway. CD spectroscopy revealed direct interaction of Psorinum with DNA, using calf thymus-DNA as target.
CONCLUSION: Psorinum 6× triggered apoptosis in A549 cells via both up- and down-regulations of relevant signal proteins, including p53, caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2.
Source : Journal Integrative Medicine
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Using hetero-isotherapics in cancer supportive care: the fruit of fifteen years of experienceAbstract
Background
Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and new targeted therapies for cancer lead to adverse effects which are often difficult to relieve using classical homeopathy. Besides diminishing the quality of life of the patient, they can force the oncologist to reduce or even to cease treatment prematurely, which represents a loss of opportunity for the patient. Faced with these recurring problems, would the use of homeopathic dilution of chemotherapy, also called hetero-isotherapy, be a suitable response for improving the tolerance of and the adherence to cancer treatment?
Methods
Based on experiments conducted for over 50 years by many authors, we have offered our patients, since 1998, a protocol of hetero-isotherapy chemotherapy starting the day after each cytotoxic infusion. It involves taking a daily dose of a dilution of the chemotherapy used, using the increased dilution technique from 5c to 15c.
Results
We observed a significant decrease in side effects, allergic reactions and late sequelae in the more than 6000 hetero-isotherapic treatments given to some 4000 patients. The better tolerance to chemotherapy and the improvement in quality of life led to an increase in treatment adherence. No interference with chemotherapy was observed. When it was necessary to prescribe another homeopathic medicine, combination with hetero-isotherapy generally improved its effectiveness.
Conclusion
In a large population, followed for over 15 years, we observed that hetero-isotherapics, well tolerated and easy to use, reduced the side effects of chemotherapy, targeted therapy or hormone therapy, and so improve the quality of life of patients.
Source : Journal Homeopathy
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Republished: Sulphur alters NFκB-p300 cross-talk in favour of p53-p300 to induce apoptosis in non-small cell lung carcinoma
Shilpi Saha1, Bhattacharjee Pushpak1, Deblina Guha1, Kirti Kajal1, Poulami Khan1, Sreeparna Chakraborty1, Shravanti Mukherjee1,Shrutarshi Paul1, Rajkumar Manchanda2, Anil Khurana2, Debadatta Nayak2, Rathin Chakrabarty3, Gaurisankar Sa1, Tanya Das1
1 Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, P1/12, CIT Scheme VIIM, Kolkata, India
2 Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, 61-65 Institutional Area, Janakpuri, New Delhi, India
3 Bholanath Chakrabarty Trust, 5 Subol Koley Lane, Howrah, India
Abstract
Adverse side effects of chemotherapy during cancer treatment have shifted considerable focus towards therapies that are not only targeted but are also devoid of toxic side effects. We evaluated the antitumorigenic activity of sulphur, and delineated the molecular mechanisms underlying sulphurinduced apoptosis in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) cells. A search for the underlying mechanism revealed that the choice between the two cellular processes, NFκBp65-mediated survival and p53-mediated apoptosis, was decided by the competition for a limited pool of transcriptional coactivator protein p300 in NSCLC cells. In contrast, sulphur inhibited otherwise upregulated survival signaling in NSCLC cells by perturbing the nuclear translocation of p65NFκB, its association with p300 histone acetylase, and subsequent transcription of Bcl-2. Under such anti-survival condition, induction of p53-p300 cross-talk enhanced the transcriptional activity of p53 and intrinsic mitochondrial death cascade. Overall, the findings of this preclinical study clearly delineated the molecular mechanism underlying the apoptogenic effect of the non-toxic homeopathic remedy, sulphur, in NSCLC cells.
Source : Indian Journal of Research in Homeopathy
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Homeopathic remedies with antineoplastic properties have immunomodulatory effects in experimental animals
Valsalakumari Remyaa, Girija Kuttan
Amala Cancer Research Centre, Affiliated to the University of Calicut, Amala Nagar P.O., Thrissur, Kerala, India
Abstract
Highlights
- •Potentized preparations of Thuja, Carcinosinum and Ruta exhibit immunomodulatory activity.
- •Immunomodulation might be a means by which their pharmacological actions are being accomplished.
- •The effects were most pronounced for higher potencies compared to lower ones.
- •The drugs can serve as non-toxic, antineoplastic immunomodulators in malignant conditions.
Background
Our previous work suggests that Thuja occidentalis, Carcinosinum and Ruta graveolens have antineoplastic properties. The mechanism of this action has not previously been studied. We studied the hypothesis that the mechanism of action is through the immune modulation.
Methods
We evaluated the effects of Thuja occidentalis, Carcinosinum and Ruta graveolens 1M, 200c and 30c on the immune system of Balb/c mice. The homeopathic preparations were administered orally for ten consecutive days. Haematological parameters (Total White Blood Cell (WBC) Count, Differential Count and Haemoglobin content), haematopoietic parameters (bone marrow cellularity and α-esterase positive cells) and immune parameters for antibody response and lymphoid cell proliferation were assessed using standard methods. Results were analysed by statistical comparison with the control.
Results
We observed significant enhancement of haematological parameters including total WBC count, haematopoietic parameters such as bone marrow cellularity and the number of α-esterase positive cells, other parameters of immune response such as circulating antibody titre and the number of plaque forming cells (PFC), particularly with higher dilutions of Thuja and Ruta. Enhanced proliferation of B and T lymphoid cells was also observed. No toxic effects were observed.
Conclusions
The results suggest immunomodulatory activity of homeopathic preparations in high dilution. This may be a mechanism through which homeopathic preparations act.
Source : Journal Homeopathy
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Anticancer potential of Conium maculatum extract against cancer cells in vitro: Drug-DNA interaction and its ability to induce apoptosis through ROS generation
Jesmin Mondal1, Ashis Kumar Panigrahi2, Anisur Rahman Khuda-Bukhsh1
1 Department of Zoology, Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, West Bengal, India
2 Department of Zoology,Fisheries and Aquaculture Laboratory, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, West Bengal, India
Abstract
Objective: Conium maculatum extract is used as a traditional medicine for cervix carcinoma including homeopathy. However, no systematic work has so far been carried out to test its anti-cancer potential against cervix cancer cells in vitro. Thus, in this study, we investigated whether ethanolic extract of conium is capable of inducing cytotoxicity in different normal and cancer cell lines including an elaborate study in HeLa cells.
Materials and Methods: Conium's effects on cell cycle, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and apoptosis, if any, were analyzed through flow cytometry. Whether Conium could damage DNA and induce morphological changes were also determined microscopically. Expression of different proteins related to cell death and survival was critically studied by western blotting and ELISA methods. If Conium could interact directly with DNA was also determined by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy.
Results: Conium treatment reduced cell viability and colony formation at 48 h and inhibited cell proliferation, arresting cell cycle at sub-G stage. Conium treatment lead to increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at 24 h, increase in MMP depolarization, morphological changes and DNA damage in HeLa cells along with externalization of phosphatidyl serine at 48 hours. While cytochrome c release and caspase-3 activation led HeLa cells toward apoptosis, down-regulation of Akt and NFkB inhibited cellular proliferation, indicating the signaling pathway to be mediated via the mitochondria-mediated caspase-3-dependent pathway. CD-spectroscopy revealed that Conium interacted with DNA molecule.
Conclusion: Overall results validate anti-cancer potential of Conium and provide support for its use in traditional systems of medicine.
Source : Pharmacognosy Magazine
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Additive homeopathy in cancer patients: Retrospective survival data from a homeopathic outpatient unit at the Medical University of Vienna.
Gaertner K1, Müllner M2, Friehs H2, Schuster E3, Marosi C2, Muchitsch I4, Frass M5, Kaye AD6.Author information
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Current literature suggests a positive influence of additive classical homeopathy on global health and well-being in cancer patients. Besides encouraging case reports, there is little if any research on long-term survival of patients who obtain homeopathic care during cancer treatment.
DESIGN: Data from cancer patients who had undergone homeopathic treatment complementary to conventional anti-cancer treatment at the Outpatient Unit for Homeopathy in Malignant Diseases, Medical University Vienna, Department of Medicine I, Vienna, Austria, were collected, described and a retrospective subgroup-analysis with regard to survival time was performed. Patient inclusion criteria were at least three homeopathic consultations, fatal prognosis of disease, quantitative and qualitative description of patient characteristics, and survival time.
RESULTS: In four years, a total of 538 patients were recorded to have visited the Outpatient Unit Homeopathy in Malignant Diseases, Medical University Vienna, Department of Medicine I, Vienna, Austria. 62.8% of them were women, and nearly 20% had breast cancer. From the 53.7% (n=287) who had undergone at least three homeopathic consultations within four years, 18.7% (n=54) fulfilled inclusion criteria for survival analysis. The surveyed neoplasms were glioblastoma, lung, cholangiocellular and pancreatic carcinomas, metastasized sarcoma, and renal cell carcinoma. Median overall survival was compared to expert expectations of survival outcomes by specific cancer type and was prolonged across observed cancer entities (p<0.001).
CONCLUSION: Extended survival time in this sample of cancer patients with fatal prognosis but additive homeopathic treatment is interesting. However, findings are based on a small sample, and with only limited data available about patient and treatment characteristics. The relationship between homeopathic treatment and survival time requires prospective investigation in larger samples possibly using matched-pair control analysis or randomized trials.
Source : Complement Ther Med
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Highly diluted natural complex M-1 inhibits melanoma growth in vivo
Lucas Ferrari de Andrade, Stellee Marcela Petris Biscaia, Gustavo Rossi, Aline Raquell Leck, Cleber Rafael Vieira da Costa, Brian Mozeleski, Fernando de Souza Fonseca Guimarães, Rafael Zotz, Juarez Gabardo, Carolina Camargo de Oliveira, Dorly de Freitas Buchi, Edvaldo da Silva Trindade
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is a lethal skin melanocytic neoplasm that forms metastasis to distant organs [1]. Inhibition of tumor-related angiogenesis results in decreased nutrient transport subsequently promoting tumor hypoxia [2]. Thus anti-angiogenic strategies offer real potential for future therapeutics. Pre-clinical and clinical studies have described new targets and approaches for identifying significant parameters involved in angiogenesis inhibition [3]. The aim of this study was to assess the in vivo antitumor potential of a highly diluted natural complex named M-1. M-1 composition is based on the following natural matrixes in Hahnemann decimal dilutions (dH) [4]: Aconitum napellus (20dH), Arsenicum album (18dH), Asa foetida (20dH), Calcarea carbonica (16dH), Chelidonium majus (20dH), Cinnamon (20dH), Conium maculatum (17dH), Echinacea purpurea (20dH), Gelsemium sempervirens (20dH), Ipecacuanha (13dH), Phosphorus (20dH), Rhus toxicodendron (17dH), Silicea (20dH), Sulphur (24dH), and Thuja occidentalis (19dH). B16-F10 cells were subcutaneously injected on dorsal flank of C57BL/6 mice. After 24 hours of B16-F10 injection, M-1 treatment was administered for a period of 10 minutes with a modified inhalation chamber [5]. Subsequent treatments occurred twice a day for 14 days. After this treatment period, mice were weighed and euthanized, then solid tumors were removed, weighed and measured (all animals developed melanoma tumors). The tumors were imaged and processed for histopathology by Fontana-Masson staining. Slides were analyzed using an automated slide scanner, Mirax Scan (Carl ZeissTM). Final images were analyzed using Mirax Viewer Software (3DHISTECHTM). Visual inspection of tumors showed an obvious decrease in tumor size (Fig. 1a-b), which was confirmed by wet weight measurement indicating tumor size to be reduced by 38%, whereas mice body weight was unaffected (Fig. 1c). When analyzed by histology, tumor area from M-1 treated mice was decreased, albeit with low significance (Fig. 1d). In summary, treatment with the highly diluted natural complex M-1 resulted in decrease in tumor size and weight. It is important to notice M-1 in vivo anticancer action, but more interesting is the first demonstration of a non-invasive route of therapy for cancer: the inhalation. Despite the promise of these series of experiments, further investigation on M-1 mechanism of action and its biochemical properties is necessary to develop more efficient therapies
Source : Intl Journal High Dilution Research
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_Anti-proliferative effects of homeopathic medicines on human kidney, colon and breast cancer cells.
Arora S, Aggarwal A, Singla P, Jyoti S, Tandon S.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Homeopathy is controversial, due to the claims made for very high dilutions. Although several theories are proposed to understand the mechanisms of action, none are scientifically verified. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of the selected homeopathic medicines in specific in vitro cancer models.
METHODS: We assessed the cytotoxic activity of selected homeopathic medicines in mother tincture (MT), and ultramolecular dilution (30C, 200C, 1M and 10M) against cell lines deriving from tumors of particular organs, Sarsaparilla (Sars) on ACHN cells (human renal adenocarcinoma), Ruta graveolens (Ruta) on COLO-205 (human colorectal carcinoma), and Phytolacca decandra (Phyto) on MCF-7 (human breast carcinoma). Sars was also tested against Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells (a non-malignant cell line). Cytotoxicity was measured using the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method, anti-proliferative activity by trypan blue exclusion assay, apoptosis determined by dual staining the cells with ethidium bromide (EB) and acridine orange (AO) dyes.
RESULTS: MTs and ultra-diluted preparations of the three homeopathic medicines had highly significant effects in the respective cancer cell lines, producing cytotoxicity and a decrease in cell proliferation. The effects were greatest with the MTs, but in all cases and persisted, although to a lesser degree in the ultra-diluted molecular preparations. Sars showed no effect on MDCK cells. In the homeopathic medicine treated cultures, hallmarks of apoptosis were evident including, cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation.
CONCLUSION: This study provides preliminary laboratory evidence indicating the ability of homeopathic medicines as anticancer agents. Further studies of the action of these homeopathic remedies are warranted.
Source : Homeopathy
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Homeopathic mother tincture of Phytolacca decandra induces apoptosis in skin melanoma cells by activating caspase-mediated signaling via reactive oxygen species elevation
Samrat Ghosh 1 , Kausik Bishayee 1 , Avijit Paul 1 , Avinaba Mukherjee 1 , Sourav Sikdar 1
Debrup Chakraborty 1 , Naoual Boujedaini 2 , Anisur Rahman Khuda-Bukhsh 1
1. Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani
741235, West Bengal, India
2.Boiron Laboratories, Lyon 69110, France
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:
Preventive measures against skin melanoma like chemotherapy are useful but suffer from chronic side effects and drug resistance. Ethanolic extract of Phytolacca decandra (PD), used in homeopathy for the treatment of various ailments like chronic rheumatism, regular conjunctivitis, psoriasis, and in some skin diseases was tested for its possible anticancer potential.
METHODS:
Cytotoxicity of the drugwas tested by conducting 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay on both normal (peripheral blood mononuclear cells) and A375 cells. Fluorescence microscopic study of 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride-stained cells was conducted for DNA fragmentation assay, and changes in cellular morphology, if any, were also recorded. Lactate dehydrogenase activity assay was done to evaluate the percentages of apoptosis and necrosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, if any, and expression study of apoptotic genes also were evaluated to pin-point the actual events of apoptosis.
RESULTS:
Results showed that PD administration caused a remarkable reduction in proliferation of A375 cells, without showing much cytotoxicity on peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Generation of ROS and DNA damage, which made the cancer cells prone to apoptosis, were found to be enhanced in PD-treated cells. These results were duly supported by the analytical data on expression of different cellular and nuclear proteins, as for example, by down-regulation of Akt and Bcl-2, up-regulation of p53, Bax and caspase 3, and an increase in number
of cell deaths by apoptosis in A375 cells.
CONCLUSION:
Overall results demonstrate anticancer potentials of PD on A375 cells through activation of caspase-mediated signaling and ROS generation
Source
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Calcarea carbonica induces apoptosis in cancer cells in p53-dependent manner via an immuno-modulatory circuit
Shilpi Saha, Dewan Md Hossain, Shravanti Mukherjee, Suchismita Mohanty, Minakshi Mazumdar, Sanhita Mukherjee, Uttam K Ghosh, Chaturbhuj Nayek, Chinta Raveendar, Anil Khurana, Rathin Chakrabarty, Gaurisankar Sa and Tanya Das
Abstract
Background
Complementary medicines, including homeopathy, are used by many patients with cancer, usually alongside with conventional treatment. However, the molecular mechanisms underneath the anti-cancer effect, if any, of these medicines have still remained unexplored. To this end we attempted to evaluate the efficacy of calcarea carbonica, a homeopathic medicine, as an anti-cancer agent and to delineate the detail molecular mechanism(s) underlying calcerea carbonica-induced tumor regression.
Methods
To investigate and delineate the underlying mechanisms of calcarea carbonica-induced tumor regression, Trypan blue dye-exclusion test, flow cytometric, Western blot and reverse transcriptase-PCR techniques were employed. Further, siRNA transfections and inhibitor studies were used to validate the involvement of p53 pathway in calcarea carbonica-induced apoptosis in cancer cells.
Results Interestingly, although calcarea carbonica administration to Ehrlich’s ascites carcinoma (EAC)- and Sarcoma-180 (S-180)-bearing Swiss albino mice resulted in 30-35% tumor cell apoptosis, it failed to induce any significant cell death in ex vivo conditions. These results prompted us to examine whether calcarea carbonica employs the immuno-modulatory circuit in asserting its anti-tumor effects. In tumor-bearing mice, there was profound depletion of CD4+ and CD8+ cells in peripheral blood, dominance of type-2 T helper cells and inhibition of T cell proliferation. Calcarea carbonica in turn prevented such loss of effector T cell repertoire, reversed type-2 cytokine bias and attenuated tumor-induced inhibition of T cell proliferation in tumor-bearing host. To confirm the role of immune system in calcarea carbonica-induced cancer cell death, a battery of cancer cells were co-cultured with calcarea carbonica-primed T cells. Our results indicated a “two-step” mechanism of the induction of apoptosis in tumor cells by calcarea carbonica i.e., (1) activation of the immune system of the host; and (2) induction of cancer cell apoptosis via immuno-modulatory circuit in p53-dependent manner by down-regulating Bcl-2:Bax ratio. Bax up-regulation resulted in mitochondrial transmembrane potential loss and cytochrome c release followed by activation of caspase cascade. Knocking out of p53 by RNA-interference inhibited calcarea carbonica-induced apoptosis thereby confirming the contribution of p53.
Conclusion
These observations delineate the significance of immuno-modulatory circuit during calcarea carbonica-mediated tumor apoptosis. The molecular mechanism identified may serve as a platform for involving calcarea carbonica into immunotherapeutic strategies for effective tumor regression.
Source : BMC
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Potentized Homeopathic Drug Lycopodium clavatum (5C and 15C) Shows an Anticancer Effect on HeLa Cells In Vitro
Asmita Samadder 1, Sreemanti Das 1, Jayeeta Das 1, Avijit Paul 1, Naoual Boujedaini 2, Anisur Rahman Khuda-Bukhsh 1,*
1 Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani,
West Bengal, India
2 Boiron Laboratory, Lyon, France
Abstract
Cancer is a disease that demands a multifaceted approach using different systems of medicine. The purpose of the study was to evaluate whether homeopathically potentized ultrahigh dilutions of Lycopodium clavatum (LC-5C and LC-15C, respectively) had any anticancer effects on HeLa cells. Cells were exposed to either LC-5C (diluted below Avogadro’s limit, i.e., 10À10) or LC-15C (diluted beyond Avogadro’s limit, i.e., 10À30) (drug-treated), or 30% succussed ethanol (the “vehicle” of the drug). Drug-induced modulation of percentage cell viability, onset of the events of apoptosis, and expression of Bax, Bcl2, caspase 3, and Apaf proteins, changes in internucleosomal DNA, mitochondrial membrane potentials (MMPs), and release of cytochrome C were analyzed utilizing different experimental protocols. Results revealed that administration of LC-5C and LC-15C had little or no cytotoxic effect in normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), but caused
considerable cell death through apoptosis in cancer (HeLa) cells, as evident from the induction of DNA fragmentation, the increase in expression of protein and mRNA for caspase 3 and Bax, and the decrease in expression of Bcl2, Apaf, and cytochrome C release. Thus, the highly diluted and dynamized homeopathic remedies LC-5C and LC-15C demonstrated their capability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, signifying their possible use as supportive medicine in cancer therapy.
Source : Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies
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A randomized, controlled clinical trial of the homeopathic medication TRAUMEEL S in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced stomatitis in children undergoing stem cell transplantation.
Oberbaum M, Yaniv I, Ben-Gal Y, Stein J, Ben-Zvi N, Freedman LS, Branski D.
The Institute of Research on Complementary Medicine, The Center of Integrated Complementary Medicine, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, P.O. Box 3235, Jerusalem 91031, Israel. [email protected]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Stomatitis is a common consequence of chemotherapy and a condition for which there is little effective treatment. Although the management of patients with other chemotherapy-related toxicities has improved in recent years, the incidence of stomatitis is increasing because of more intensive treatment and is often a dose limiting factor in chemotherapy. The authors assessed the efficacy of a homeopathic remedy, TRAUMEEL S(R), in the management of chemotherapy-induced stomatitis in children undergoing bone marrow transplantation.
METHODS: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial was conducted in 32 patients ages 3-25 years who had undergone allogeneic (16 patients) or autologous (16 patients) stem cell transplantation. Of the 30 evaluable patients, 15 were assigned placebo, and 15 were assigned TRAUMEEL S both as a mouth rinse, administered five times daily from 2 days after transplantation for a minimum of 14 days, or until at least 2 days after all signs of stomatitis were absent. Stomatitis scores were evaluated according to the World Health Organization grading system for mucositis.
RESULTS: A total of five patients (33%) in the TRAUMEEL S treatment group did not develop stomatitis compared with only one patient (7%) in the placebo group. Stomatitis worsened in only 7 patients (47%) in the TRAUMEEL S treatment group compared with 14 patients (93%) in the placebo group. The mean area under the curve stomatitis scores were 10.4 in the TRAUMEEL S treatment group and 24.3 in the placebo group. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01).
CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that TRAUMEEL S may reduce significantly the severity and duration of chemotherapy-induced stomatitis in children undergoing bone marrow transplantation.
Source : Cancer. 2001 Aug 1;92(3):684-90.
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Can adjuvant homeopathy improve the control of post-chemotherapy emesis in breast cancer patients? Results of a randomized placebo-controlled trial.
I. L. Ray-Coquard, J. Provençal, A. C. Hardy-Bessard, T. Bachelot, D. Coeffic, J. P. Jacquin, J. P. Guastalla, C. Agostini, X. Pivot, A. Bajard, D. Pérol; Centre Léon Berard, Lyon, France; Centre Hospitalier de la Région d'Annecy, Annecy, France; Clinique Armoricaine de Radiologie, Saint-Brieuc, France; Institut Daniel Hollard, Grenoble, France; Institut de Cancérologie de la Loire, Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, France; Centre Hospitalier Général, Chambéry, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Besançon, France
Abstract:
Background: Homeopathy used as an adjunct in the treatment of chemotherapy (CT)-induced emesis has rarely been evaluated.
Methods: Patients with non-metastatic breast cancer treated with 6 courses of FAC 50, FEC 100 or TAC chemotherapy were randomized to Cocculus/nux vomica/tabacum/petroleum extract (Cocculine, C) or Placebo (P) in a multicentric comparative double-blind phase III study. Anti-emetic treatment was standardized (corticoids + ondansetron). Patients were evaluated after each course. The primary endpoint was nausea measured after the 1st CT course using the FLIE (Functional Living Index for Emesis) with 5-day recall. The planned sample size was 396 evaluable patients based on a minimum expected difference in mean of 0.5 ± 1.6 on a scale from 1 (a lot) to 7 (not at all) with 5% two-sided α error and 85% power. An intent-to-treat analysis was planned. Secondary evaluation criteria were: vomiting measured by the FLIE score, patient self-evaluation (EVA) and investigator recording (NCI-CTC) of nausea and vomiting intensities, and compliance.
Results: From September 05 to January 08, 431 patients were randomized (217 to P and 214 to C). Patient characteristics were well balanced between groups. Median age was 53 years, 35% of the patients experienced nausea or vomiting. In total, 403 patients (93.5%) were assessable for the primary endpoint, with few nausea episodes (FLIE nausea scores after the 1st CT course were 6.02 and 6.07 for P and C, respectively) and very good compliance (81% patients complied with the protocol). Adverse events related to nausea occurred in 51% vs. 47% of the patients treated with P and C, respectively (p = 0.48). FLIE and NCI-CTC vomiting scores were similar between the 2 arms (6.91 vs. 6.88, p = 0.47, and 20% vs. 21%, p = 0.73, for P and C, respectively). Grade II-III nausea occurred in 17.6% and 15.7% of patients receiving P and C (p = 0.62).
Conclusions: No benefit of homeopathy over standard treatment was noted in this study. But surprisingly we observed lower rates of nausea and vomiting measured by patients and by investigators, than in other studies using identical chemotherapy regimens. The observation and management of emesis could modify the perception and rate of such adverse events.
Source : J Clin Oncol 27, 2009 (suppl; abstr e20566)
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Homeopathy for menopausal symptoms in breast cancer survivors: a preliminary randomized controlled trial.
Jacobs J, Herman P, Heron K, Olsen S, Vaughters L.
Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To carry out a preliminary trial evaluating the effectiveness of two types of homeopathy for the treatment of menopausal symptoms in breast cancer survivors.
DESIGN: Randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled.
SETTINGS/LOCATION: Private medical clinic, Seattle, WA.
SUBJECTS: Women with a history of breast cancer who had completed all surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatment and who had an average of at least three hot flashes per day for the previous month.
INTERVENTIONS: Subjects were randomized to receive either an individualized homeopathic single remedy, a homeopathic combination medicine, or placebo. Patients were seen by homeopathic providers every 2 months for 1 year.
OUTCOME MEASURES: Hot flash frequency and severity, Kupperman Menopausal Index (KMI), Short Form 36 (SF-36).
RESULTS: There was no significant difference found in the primary outcome measure, the hot flash severity score, although there was a positive trend in the single remedy group during the first 3 months of the study (p = 0.1). A statistically significant improvement in general health score in both homeopathy groups (p < 0.05) on the SF-36 after 1 year was found. Evidence of a homeopathic "drug proving" in the subjects receiving the homeopathic combination medicine who were not taking tamoxifen also was found.
CONCLUSIONS: Small sample size precludes definitive answers, but results from this preliminary trial suggest that homeopathy may be of value in the treatment of menopausal symptoms and improving quality of life, especially in those women not on tamoxifen. Larger studies should be carried out that also include healthy women who want to avoid hormone replacement therapy.
Source : J Altern Complement Med. 2005 Feb;11(1):21-7.
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The homeopathic approach to the treatment of symptoms of oestrogen withdrawal in breast cancer patients. A prospective observational study
Thompson EA, Reilly D.
Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 0XQ, UK. [email protected]
AbstractThis paper reports on an investigation of the homeopathic approach to the management of symptoms of oestrogen withdrawal in women with breast cancer. Forty-five patients entered the study. The most common presenting symptoms were hot flushes (HF) (n=38), mood disturbance (n=23), joint pain (n=12), and fatigue (n=16). Other symptoms included sleeplessness, reduced libido, weight gain, cystitis, vaginal dryness and skin eruptions. The active intervention was an individualised homeopathic medicine. Forty women (89%) completed the study. Significant improvements in mean symptom scores were seen over the study period and for the primary end-point 'the effect on daily living' scores. Symptoms other than HF such as fatigue and mood disturbance appear to be helped. Significant improvements in anxiety, depression and quality of life were demonstrated over the study period. The homeopathic approach appears to be clinically useful in the management of oestrogen withdrawal symptoms in women with breast cancer whether on or off Tamoxifen and improves mood disturbance. A placebo-controlled trial would be the next stage in this line of inquiry.
Source : Homeopathy. 2003 Jul;92(3):131-4.
Link to Abstract
Laboratory Research in Homeopathy: Pro
Anisur R. Khuda-Bukhsh, PhD
Abstract
Homeopathy is a holistic method of treatment that uses ultralow doses of highly diluted natural substances originating from plants, minerals, or animals and is based on the principle of “like cures like.” Despite being occasionally challenged for its scientific validity and mechanism of action, homeopathy continues to enjoy the confidence of millions of patients around the world who opt for this mode
of treatment. Contrary to skeptics’ views, research on homeopathy using modern tools mostly tends to support its efficacy and advocates new ideas toward understanding its mechanism of action. As part of a Point-Counterpoint feature, this review and its companion piece in this issue by Moffett et al (Integr Cancer Ther. 2006;5:333-342) are composed of a thesis section, a response section in reaction to
the companion thesis, and a rebuttal section to address issues raised in the companion response.
Source : Integr Cancer Ther 2006; 5; 320
Link to Full Article
Efficacy of the Potentized Homeopathic Drug, Carcinosin 200, Fed Alone and in Combination with Another Drug, Chelidonium 200, in Amelioration of p-Dimethylaminoazobenzene–Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis in Mice
SURJYO JYOTI BISWAS, Ph.D., SURAJIT PATHAK, M.Sc., NANDINI BHATTACHARJEE, M.Sc.,
JAYANTA KUMAR DAS, Ph.D., and ANISUR RAHMAN KHUDA-BUKHSH, M.Sc., Ph.D.
ABSTRACT
Objectives: This study was conducted to examine whether the potentized homeopathic remedy Carcinosin
200, fed alone and in combination with Chelidonium 200, has differential protective effects against p-dimethylaminoazobenzene (p-DAB)–induced hepatocarcinogenesis in mice.
Design: Liver tumors were induced in mice through chronic feeding of p-DAB (initiator) and phenobarbital
(PB, promoter). The mice were divided into two subgroups: (1) one was fed potentized Alcohol 200 and served as controls; and (2) the other was fed Carcinosin 200 alone or in combination with Chelidonium 200 and divided into several sets. The relative efficacy of the two potentized remedies, alone or in combination, in combating hepatocarcinogenesis was assessed through several cytogenetical endpoints such as chromosome aberrations, induction of micronuclei, sperm head anomaly, and mitotic index at several intervals of fixation (days 7, 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120). Several toxicity biomarkers such as acid and alkaline phosphatases, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, and lipid peroxidation activity were also assayed in three organs of treated and control mice. In addition, recovery by the homeopathic drugs, if any, of tissue damage inflicted because of chronic feeding of p-DAB and PB was also assessed by optical, scanning, and transmission electron microscopies of liver done at days 60 and 120.
Results: Both Carcinosin 200 and Chelidonium 200 when administered alone show considerable ameliorative effect against p-DAB–induced hepatocarcinogenesis in mice; but the conjoint feeding of these two drugs appears to have had a slightly greater protective effect.
Conclusions: These homeopathic remedies have the potential to be used as complementary and alternative medicine in liver cancer therapy, particularly as supporting palliative measures.
Source : THE JOURNAL OF ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE
Volume 11, Number 5, 2005, pp. 839–854
Link to Full Article
Anticancer Potentials of Root Extract of Polygala senega and Its PLGA Nanoparticles-Encapsulated Form
Saili Paul,1 Soumya Sundar Bhattacharyya,1 Naoual Boujedaini,2 and Anisur Rahman Khuda-Bukhsh1
1Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, India
2Boiron Laboratory, 69110 Lyon, France
Abstract
Ethanolic extract of Polygala senega (EEPS) had little or no cytotoxic effects on normal lung cells, but caused cell death and apoptosis to lung cancer cell line A549. In the present paper, ethanolic root extract of P. senega (EEPS) was nanoencapsulated (size: 147.7 nm) by deploying a biodegradable poly-(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA). The small size of the NEEPS resulted in an enhanced cellular entry and greater bioavailability. The growth of cancer cells was inhibited better by NEEPS than EEPS. Both EEPS and NEEPS induced apoptosis of A549 cells, which was associated with decreased expression of survivin, PCNA mRNA, and increased expression of caspase-3, p53 mRNAs of A549 cells. The results show that the anticancer potential of the formulation of EEPS-loaded PLGA nanoparticles was more effective than EEPS per se, probably due to more aqueous dispersion after nanoencapsulation. Therefore, nanoencapsulated ethanolic root extract of P. senega may serve as a potential chemopreventive agent against lung cancer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it has been demonstrated that homeopathic mother tincture of P. senega has an anticancer effect against lung cancer cells in vitro, and PLGA encapsulation helps it to enhance its cellular uptake and anticancer potentials, presumably by increasing drug bioavailability. This should stimulate further research on nano-encapsulation of homeopathic mother tinctures, as also medicinal herbal extracts, particularly with suspected anticancer potentials, to examine whether this would prove to be a novel approach for accelerating anticancer potentials for other cases as well.
Source : Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Volume 2011 (2011), Article ID 517204, 13 pages doi:10.1155/2011/517204
Link to Full Article
A homeopathic approach to treat patients with advanced gallbladder, periampullary, and liver carcinomas: a report of 3 cases.
Chatterjee A, Biswas J.
Critical Cancer Management Research Centre & Clinic , Kolkata, West Bengal, India .
Abstract
Objectives:
The authors present 3 cases of various pathologically confirmed malignancies (one gallbladder, one periampullary, and one liver). These patients underwent Psorinum therapy as the primary cancer treatment. Psorinum therapy is a homeopathic approach to treat patients with cancer.
Subjects:
According to the American Joint Committee on Cancer tumor, nodes, metastasis system, all 3 patients were diagnosed at Stage IV. Their Karnofsky performance status was between 20% and 50% and their Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score status was between 3 and 4. In these cases, conventional cancer treatments could not be initiated due to the advanced stage of their disease, poor general health performance status, and their financial constraints.
Interventions and outcome:
In these patients, Psorinum-6x was administered orally at a dose of 0.02 mL/kg body weight/day on an empty stomach for a complete course duration of 2 years, along with allopathic and homeopathic supportive treatment. According to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors criteria, complete tumor response occurred in 1 case and partial tumor response occurred in the other 2 cases. All 3 patients remained alive and maintained a stable quality of life for at least 2 years. The patients reported no adverse side-effects from Psorinum-6x.
Conclusions:
This report indicates the clinical efficacy of Psorinum therapy in treating those 3 patients. Thorough basic research and well-designed clinical trials should be conducted for further investigation of this homeopathic cancer treatment in order to integrate it into the mainstream of oncology treatments.
Source : J Altern Complement Med. 2012 Feb;18(2):180-6.
Link to Abstract
Effects of Homeopathic Preparations on Human Prostate Cancer Growth in Cellular and Animal Models
- Brian W. MacLaughlin, BS
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
- Babett Gutsmuths, PharmD, PhD
- Ewald Pretner, MD
- Department of Cell Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
- Wayne B. Jonas, MD
- John Ives, PhD
- Samueli Institute for Information Biology, Alexandria, VA
- Don Victor Kulawardane, MD, DTH, DCH
- Homeopathic Clinic, Jayawardane Place, Dehiwala, Sri Lanka
- Hakima Amri, PhD
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Basic Science Building, room 217, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3900 Reservoir Rd, NW, Washington, DC 20007 [email protected].
The use of dietary supplements for various ailments enjoys unprecedented popularity. As part of this trend, Sabal serrulata (saw palmetto) constitutes the complementary treatment of choice with regard to prostate health. In homeopathy, Sabal serrulata is commonly prescribed for prostate problems ranging from benign prostatic hyperplasia to prostate cancer. The authors' work assessed the antiproliferative effects of homeopathic preparations of Sabal serrulata, Thuja occidentalis, and Conium maculatum, in vivo, on nude mouse xenografts, and in vitro, on PC-3 and DU-145 human prostate cancer as well as MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell lines. Treatment with Sabal serrulata in vitro resulted in a 33% decrease of PC-3 cell proliferation at 72 hours and a 23% reduction of DU-145 cell proliferation at 24 hours (P<.01). The difference in reduction is likely due to the specific doubling time of each cell line. No effect was observed on MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells. Thuja occidentalis and Conium maculatum did not have any effect on human prostate cancer cell proliferation. In vivo, prostate tumor xenograft size was significantly reduced in Sabal serrulata–treated mice compared to untreated controls (P=.012). No effect was observed on breast tumor growth. Our study clearly demonstrates a biologic response to homeopathic treatment as manifested by cell proliferation and tumor growth. This biologic effect was (i)significantly stronger to Sabal serrulata than to controls and (ii)specific to human prostate cancer. Sabal serrulata should thus be further investigated as a specific homeopathic remedy for prostate pathology.
Source : Integrative Cancer Therapies
Link to Abstract
Tumor Therapy with Amanita phalloides (Death Cap): Stabilization of B-Cell Chronic Lymphatic LeukemiaIsolde
Riede, PhD
Alternative Practitioner, Independent Cancer Research, Ueberlingen, Germany.
Abstract
.
Molecular events that cause tumor formation upregulate a number of HOX genes, called switch genes, coding for RNA polymerase II transcription factors. Thus, in tumor cells, RNA polymerase II is more active than in other somatic cells. Amanita phalloides contains amanitin, inhibiting RNA polymerase II. Partial inhibition with amanitin influences tumor cell—but not normal cell—activity.
Objectives
To widen the treatment spectrum, homeopathic dilutions of Amanita phalloides, containing amanitin, were given to a patient with leukemia. Monitoring the leukemic cell count, different doses of amanitin were given.
Results
The former duplication time of leukemic cells was 21 months. Within a period of 21 months, the cell count is stabilized to around 105/μL. No leukemia-associated symptoms, liver damage, or continuous erythrocyte deprivation occur.
Conclusions
This new principle of tumor therapy shows high potential to provide a gentle medical treatment.
Source : J Altern Complement Med. 2010 October; 16(10): 1129–1132
Link to Full Article
Effect of Homeopathic Medicines on Transplanted Tumors in Mice
ES Sunila, Girija Kuttan, Preethi KC, Ramadasan Kuttan*
Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amala Nagar, Thrissur, Kerala State, India. 680555.
Abstract
Ultra low doses used in homeopathic medicines are reported to have healing potential for various diseases
but their action remains controversial. In this study we have investigated the antitumour and antimetastatic
activity of selected homeopathic medicines against transplanted tumours in mice. It was found that Ruta
graveolens 200c and Hydrastis canadensis 200c significantly increased the lifespan of Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma and Dalton’s Lymphoma Ascites induced tumour-bearing animals by 49.7%, and 69.4% respectively. Moreover there was 95.6% and 95.8% reduction of solid tumour volume in Ruta 200c and Hydrastis 200c treated animals on the 31st day after tumour inoculation. Hydrastis 1M given orally significantly inhibited the growth of developed solid tumours produced by DLA cells and increased the lifespan of tumour bearing animals. Some 9 out of 15 animals with developed tumors were completely tumour free after treatment with Hydrastis 1M. Significant anti-metastatic activity was also found in B16F-10 melanoma-bearing animals treated with Thuja1M, Hydrastis 1M and Lycopodium1M. This was evident from the inhibition of lung tumour nodule formation, morphological and histopathological analysis of lung and decreased levels of γ-GT in serum, a cellular marker of proliferation. These findings support that homeopathic preparations of Ruta and Hydrastis have significant antitumour activity.
The mechanism of action of these medicines is not known at present.
Source : Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
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Clastogenic Potential of Ruta graveolens Extract and a Homeopathic Preparation in Mouse Bone Marrow Cells
Korengath C Preethi et al
Abstract
Ruta graveolens belonging to family Rutaceae has long been traditionally used as a medicinal plant as well as a flavoring agent in food. However, very little data are available on the toxicity of the plant. This report presents evidence on the genotoxic and clastogenic potential of an extract of Ruta graveolens and Ruta 200C, a homeopathic preparation. Various types of chromosomal aberrations were noted in bone marrow cells after treatment. The percentage of aberrated cells in 4the 00mg/kgb.wt extract administered group was found to be 21% and with 1000mg/kg.b.wt it was 31%. The 23% for the Ruta 200C treated group was also elevated as compared to the 3%for untreated animals. In addition, bone marrow cells had higher incidence of micronuclei induction when treated with the extract (400mg and 1000mg/kg body weight) and 20μl/animal Ruta 200C for 30 days. Administration of the extract (1000mg/kg.b.wt) over a period of 30 days also resulted in damage to cellular DNA as evidenced by comet formation where the comet parameters such as percentage DNA in tail, tail length, tail moment of the bone marrow cells were increased several fold over control values. The comet tail moment of the bone marrow cells increased from 4.5 ± 2.5 to 50.2 ± 25.2 after the extract treatment. Administration of 20μl/animal Ruta 200C for 5 consecutive days increased the tail moment to 11.7 ± 2.9. These results indicate that Ruta graveolens and Ruta 200C may induce genotoxicity in animals.
Source : Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
Link to Full Article
Inhibition of Chemically Induced Carcinogenesis by Drugs Used in Homeopathic Medicine
K B Hari Kumar, E.S. Sunila, Girija Kuttan, K C Preethi, C Nimita Venugopal, Ramadasan Kuttan*
Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amala Nagar, Thrissur, Kerala State, India. 680555.
Abstract
Homeopathy is considered as one modality for cancer therapy. However, there are only very few clinical
reports on the activity of the drugs, as well as in experimental animals. Presently we have evaluated the inhibitory effects of potentized homeopathic preparations against N’-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) induced hepatocellular carcinoma in rats as well as 3-methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas in mice. We have used Ruta, Hydrastis, Lycopodium and Thuja, which are commonly employed in homeopathy for treating cancer. Administration of NDEA in rats resulted in tumor induction in the liver and elevated marker enzymes such as gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase and alkaline phosphatase in the serum and in liver. Concomitant administration of homeopathic drugs retarded the tumor growth and significantly reduced the elevated marker enzymes level as revealed by morphological, biochemical and histopathological evaluation. Out of the four drugs studied, Ruta 200c showed maximum inhibition of liver tumor development. Ruta 200c and phosphorus 1M were found to reduce the incidence of 3-methylcholanthreneinduced sarcomas and also increase the life span of mice harboring the tumours. These studies demonstrate that homeopathic drugs, at ultra low doses, may be able to decrease tumor induction by carcinogen administration. At present we do not know the mechanisms of action of these drugs useful against carcinogenesis.
Source : Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
Link to Full Article
Tumor Therapy with Amanita phalloides (Death Cap): Stabilization of B-Cell Chronic Lymphatic Leukemia
Isolde Riede, PhD
Alternative Practitioner, Independent Cancer Research, Ueberlingen, Germany.
Abstract
Background
Molecular events that cause tumor formation upregulate a number of HOX genes, called switch genes, coding for RNA polymerase II transcription factors. Thus, in tumor cells, RNA polymerase II is more active than in other somatic cells. Amanita phalloides contains amanitin, inhibiting RNA polymerase II. Partial inhibition with amanitin influences tumor cell—but not normal cell—activity.
Objectives
To widen the treatment spectrum, homeopathic dilutions of Amanita phalloides, containing amanitin, were given to a patient with leukemia. Monitoring the leukemic cell count, different doses of amanitin were given.
Results
The former duplication time of leukemic cells was 21 months. Within a period of 21 months, the cell count is stabilized to around 105/μL. No leukemia-associated symptoms, liver damage, or continuous erythrocyte deprivation occur.
Conclusions
This new principle of tumor therapy shows high potential to provide a gentle medical treatment.
Source : J Altern Complement Med. 2010 October; 16(10): 1129–1132.
Link to Full Article
Can Homeopathic Treatment Slow Prostate Cancer Growth?
- Wayne B. Jonas, MD
- Samueli Institute, 1700 Diagonal Road, Suite 400, Alexandria, VA 22314
- Jaya P. Gaddipati, PhD
- N. V. Rajeshkumar, PhD
- Anuj Sharma, MS
- Rajesh L. Thangapazham, MS
- Jim Warren, MS
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
- Anoop K. Singh, PhD
- John A. Ives, PhD
- Samueli Institute, Alexandria, Virginia
- Cara Olsen, MS, MPH
- Biostatistics Consulting Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
- Steven R. Mog, DVM
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
- Radha K. Maheshwari, PhD
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
Background: Homeopathy is a complementary medicine widely used around the world. Despite extensive use of homeopathy for cancer and other serious conditions with reported success, clinical and laboratory research has been equivocal, and no rigorous research has been done on cancer. In 1999, the US National Cancer Institute evaluated the effects of homeopathic treatment of cancer from a clinic in India and has released a request for protocols to conduct further research into this treatment. Therefore, the authors conducted a series of carefully controlled laboratory studies evaluating the effects of commonly used homeopathic remedies in cell and animal models of prostate cancer. Study Design: One hundred male Copenhagen rats were randomly assigned to either treatment or control groups after inoculation with prostate tumor cells.
Methods: Prostate tumor cells DU-145, LNCaP, and MAT-LyLu were exposed to 5 homeopathic remedies. Male Copenhagen rats were injected with MAT-LyLu cells and exposed to the same homeopathic remedies for 5 weeks. In vitro outcomes included tumor cell viability and apoptosis gene expression. In vivo outcomes included tumor incidence, volume, weight, total mortality, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression, apoptotic cell death (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated d-uridine triphosphate nick end labeling), and gene expression (rAPO-multiprobe).
Results: There were no effects on cell viability or gene expression in 3 prostate cell lines with any remedies at any exposure time. There was a 23% reduction in tumor incidence (P < .0001), and for animals with tumors, there was a 38% reduction in tumor volume in homeopathy-treated animals versus controls (P < .02). At time of killing, experimental animals with tumors had a 13% lower average tumor weight (P < .05). Tumors in these treated animals showed a 19% increase in apoptotic cell death (P < .05) and reduced PCNA-positive cells.
Conclusions: The findings indicate that selected homeopathic remedies for the present study have no direct cellular anticancer effects but appear to significantly slow the progression of cancer and reduce cancer incidence and mortality in Copenhagen rats injected with MAT-LyLu prostate cancer cells.
Source : Integrative Cancer Therapies
Link to Abstract
Homeopathy and cancer: a literature review
Marina das Neves Gomes, Carla Holandino Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. UFRJ, Brazil
ABSTRACT
The World Health Organization states that deaths from cancer are increasing reaching an estimated 12 million deaths by 2030 [1]. In Brazil will be about 480,000 new cases by the end of 2011 [2]. For the treatment of cancer conventional therapies are used, such as chemotherapy[3] and radiotherapy [4] which can cause many adverse reactions. Complementary therapies such as homeopathy can be combined to traditional cancer treatment with the aim of minimizing these adverse reactions, relieving the symptoms of the disease itself and its treatment. Other complementary therapies which can aid in cancer treatment are electrotherapy, acupuncture and electroacupuncture, nutritional supplements, probiotics, phytotherapy, among others[5]. The literature shows the homeopathic medicines can be prescribed using the patient’s physical constitution as one strategy to help cancer patients [6-11]. This work aims to compile the literature review done with in vitro and in vivo models describing the mechanisms of action of homeopathic medicines used to treat different kinds of cancer. The research findings showed that homeopathy can help the patient to come to terms with the disease, after cancer diagnosis which often brings with itself denial, fear and a host of psychological disorders that cause an unbalance in the body. In addition, some works done with in vitro and in vivo models have shown that homeopathic medicines can modulate the immune system, activating macrophages and inducing the release of cytokines. These and other effects may help the body to overcome the cancer. The use of homeopathic therapy as complementary to conventional cancer treatment has promising results and should be further investigated.
Source : Int J High Dilution Res 2011; 10(36):145-146
Link to Full Article
In vivo treatment with M8, a highly diluted tinctures complex, reduced the malignancy of a mouse melanoma model.
Lucas Ferrari de Andrade, Fernando de Souza Fonseca Guimarães, Gustavo Rossi, Rafael Zotz, Eneida J. Da Lozzo, Célia Regina Cavichiolo Franco, Carolina Camargo de Oliveira, Dorly de Freitas Buchi, Edvaldo da Silva Trindade Univesidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brasil.
ABSTRACT
Background: Cancer is a class of disease responsible for 13% of death cause worldwide. Among all types of cancers, one of the most aggressive and with the highest death rate is melanoma. It is highly metastatic and current treatments with chemotherapeutic drugs do not yield satisfactory results. Therefore, the interest on new therapeutics for cancer treatment has been increasing on research. Highly diluted tinctures (HDT) are intended to enhance immune system responses resulting in reduced frequency of various diseases, and often present no risk of serious side-effects due to its low toxicity. Previous results have demonstrated in vitro inhibition of invasion ability and in vivo anti-metastatic potential of B16F10 lung metastasis model after mice treatment with M8 inhalation.
Aims: Now we have evaluated M8 effects on hyaluronic acid and its specific melanoma cell surface receptor (CD44) expression on lungs after inhalation by mice.
Methodology: M8 compounds include Aconitum napellus 20dH, Arsenicum album 18dH, Asa foetida 20dH, Calcarea carbonica 16dH, Conium maculatum 17dH, Ipecacuanha 13dH, Phosphorus 20dH, Rhus toxicodendron 17H, Silicea 20dH, Sulphur 24dH, and Thuja occidentalis 19dH. B16F10 Melanoma cells were inoculated into C57B/L6 mouse lateral tail vein. Treatment started 24 hours after inoculation, and was repeated after each 12 hours during 14 days on an inhalation chamber that is adapted to little rodents. Mice were subjected to euthanasia by intraperitoneal injection of thiopental followed by decapitation. Lungs were surgically removed and analyzed under a stereomicroscope for the presence of metastatic foci. They were formaldehyde fixed, dehydrated and paraffin embedded. Histological sections were processed for hematoxilin/eosin (HE), Fontana-Masson and immunohistochemistry staining methods. Images were captured and blindly analysed by ImageJ (NIH) software.
Results: HE and Fontana-Masson showed a reduction in number and size of metastatic nodules, as previously demonstrated. We have detected a reduction on hyaluronic acid as well as CD44 expression on mice lungs after M8 treatment. The high metastatic potential of melanoma is proportional to hyaluronic acid expression level, together with its specific cell surface receptor, the CD44. These results suggest that M8 treatment reduces malignancy of mouse melanoma through modulation of hyaluronic acid and CD44 expression, which play crucial roles in tumor invasion and growth.
Conclusion: Even though further investigation are necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of action of M8
treatment there is an indication that these highly diluted tinctures could be a promising therapy to treat
metastatic melanoma.
Source : Int J High Dilution Res 2011; 10(36):142-144
Link to Full Article
Cancer patients treated with the Banerji protocols utilising homoeopathic medicine: A Best Case Series Program of the National Cancer Institute USA
PRASANTA BANERJI1, DONALD R. CAMPBELL2 and PRATIP BANERJI1
1PB Homoeopathic Research Foundation, Kolkata, West Bengal, India;
2Saint Luke's Hospital and University of Missouri, Kansas City, MO, USA
Abstract
Although many studies have been conducted on the role of alternative medicine in the treatment of cancer, only a few reports have been published regarding the total regression of malignant tumors. At the PBH Research Foundation (PBHRF), two of the authors have used homoeopathic therapy to treat many patients with various malignant tumors. The objective of the present study was to have their treatment procedures evaluated and validated by the United States (US) National Cancer Institute (NCI) Best Case Series (BCS) Program. Lung and oesophageal carcinoma patients were treated with homoeopathic remedies at the PBHRF according to Banerji's protocol until there was complete regression of the tumors. Case records including pathology and radiology reports for 14 patients were submitted for review by the US NCI BCS Program. Four of these cases had an independent confirmation of the diagnosis and radiographic response and were accepted as sufficient information for the NCI to initiate further investigation. These four cases are presented in detail in this report along with follow-up and outcome information. This study describes the process and outcome of a selected case series review through the NCI BCS Program. The results of the review were deemed to be sufficient to warrant NCI-initiated prospective research follow-up in the form of an observational study.
Discussion
......Based on the positive outcomes seen in these case studies, several questions have arisen that have warranted further study. Notably, could the results be replicated and if so what is their frequency? Furthermore, how could a workable protocol be developed to study the use of this approach to homoeopathic management in a prospective clinical trial of a specific type and stage of cancer?.....
Source :
Link to Full Article
.
Effect of a homeopathic drug, Chelidonium, in amelioration of p-DAB induced hepatocarcinogenesis in mice
Surjyo J Biswas and Anisur R Khuda-Bukhsh*
Cytogenetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741 235, W.B., India
Abstract
.
Background Crude extracts of Chelidonium majus, and also purified compounds derived from crude extracts of this plant, have been reported to exhibit anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and anti-microbial properties both in vitro and in vivo. Chelidonium is a homeopathic drug routinely used against various liver disorders including cancer in humans. Two potencies of Chelidonium (Ch-30, Ch-200) have been tested for their possible anti-tumor and enzyme modulating activities in liver and anti-clastogenic effects during p-DAB-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in mice compared to suitable controls.
Methods Several cytogenetic and enzymatic protocols were used at three fixation intervals; at 60 days, 90 days and 120 days of treatment. Different sets of healthy mice were fed: i) hepatocarcinogen, p-DAB plus phenobarbital (PB), ii) only PB, iii) neither p-DAB nor PB (normal control). One set of mice fed with p-DAB plus PB was also fed Ch-30 (iv) and another set Ch-200 (v). All standard currently used methods were adopted for cytogenetical preparations and for the enzyme assays.
Results All group (i) mice developed tumors in liver at all fixation intervals, while none of group (ii) and (iii) mice developed any tumors. About 40% mice in group (iv) and group (v) did not show tumor nodules in their liver. Feeding of Chelidonium to group (iv) and (v) mice reduced genotoxic effects to a significant extent (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001).
Conclusion The homeopathic drug Chelidonium exhibited anti-tumor and anti-genotoxic activities and also favorably modulated activities of some marker enzymes. Microdoses of Chelidonium may be effectively used in combating liver cancer.
Source : BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2002, 2:4 doi:10.1186/1472-6882-2-4
Link to Full Article
Modulation of Signal Proteins: A Plausible Mechanism to Explain How a Potentized Drug Secale Cor 30C Diluted beyond Avogadro's Limit Combats Skin Papilloma in Mice
Anisur Rahman Khuda-Bukhsh,1 Soumya Sundar Bhattacharyya,1 Saili Paul,1 Suman Dutta,1 Naoual Boujedaini,2 and Philippe Belon2
1Cytogenetics and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani 741235, West Bengal, India
2Boiron Laboratory, Lyon, France
Abstract
.In homeopathy, ability of ultra-high diluted drugs at or above potency 12C (diluted beyond Avogadro's limit) in ameliorating/curing various diseases is often questioned, particularly because the mechanism of action is not precisely known. We tested the hypothesis if suitable modulations of signal proteins could be one of the possible pathways of action of a highly diluted homeopathic drug, Secale cornutum 30C (diluted 1060 times; Sec cor 30). It could successfully combat DMBA + croton oil-induced skin papilloma in mice as evidenced by histological, cytogenetical, immunofluorescence, ELISA and immunoblot findings. Critical analysis of several signal proteins like AhR, PCNA, Akt, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, NF-𝜅B and IL-6 and of pro-apoptotic proteins like cytochrome c, Bax, Bad, Apaf, caspase-3 and -9 revealed that Sec cor 30 suitably modulated their expression levels along with amelioration of skin papilloma. FACS data also suggested an increase of cell population at S and G2 phases and decrease in sub-G1 and G1 phages in carcinogen-treated drug-unfed mice, but these were found to be near normal in the Sec cor 30-fed mice. There was reduction in genotoxic and DNA damages in bone marrow cells of Sec Cor 30-fed mice, as revealed from cytogenetic and Comet assays. Changes in histological features of skin papilloma were noted. Immunofluorescence studies of AhR and PCNA also suggested reduced expression of these proteins in Sec cor 30-fed mice, thereby showing its anti-cancer potentials against skin papilloma. Furthermore, this study also supports the hypothesis that potentized homeopathic drugs act at gene regulatory level.
Source : Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Volume 2011 (2011), Article ID 286320, 12 pages doi:10.1093/ecam/nep084
Link to Full Article
Classical homeopathy in the treatment of cancer patients - a prospective observational study of two independent cohorts
Matthias Rostock4,1*, Johannes Naumann1,2, Corina Guethlin2,5, Lars Guenther2, Hans H Bartsch1 and Harald Walach3
Abstract
Background Many cancer patients seek homeopathy as a complementary therapy. It has rarely been studied systematically, whether homeopathic care is of benefit for cancer patients.
Methods We conducted a prospective observational study with cancer patients in two differently treated cohorts: one cohort with patients under complementary homeopathic treatment (HG; n = 259), and one cohort with conventionally treated cancer patients (CG; n = 380). For a direct comparison, matched pairs with patients of the same tumour entity and comparable prognosis were to be formed.
Main outcome parameter: change of quality of life (FACT-G, FACIT-Sp) after 3 months.
Secondary outcome parameters: change of quality of life (FACT-G, FACIT-Sp) after a year, as well as impairment by fatigue (MFI) and by anxiety and depression (HADS).
Results HG: FACT-G, or FACIT-Sp, respectively improved statistically significantly in the first three months, from 75.6 (SD 14.6) to 81.1 (SD 16.9), or from 32.1 (SD 8.2) to 34.9 (SD 8.32), respectively. After 12 months, a further increase to 84.1 (SD 15.5) or 35.2 (SD 8.6) was found. Fatigue (MFI) decreased; anxiety and depression (HADS) did not change.
CG: FACT-G remained constant in the first three months: 75.3 (SD 17.3) at t0, and 76.6 (SD 16.6) at t1. After 12 months, there was a slight increase to 78.9 (SD 18.1). FACIT-Sp scores improved significantly from t0 (31.0 - SD 8.9) to t1 (32.1 - SD 8.9) and declined again after a year (31.6 - SD 9.4). For fatigue, anxiety, and depression, no relevant changes were found.
120 patients of HG and 206 patients of CG met our criteria for matched-pairs selection. Due to large differences between the two patient populations, however, only 11 matched pairs could be formed. This is not sufficient for a comparative study.
Conclusion In our prospective study, we observed an improvement of quality of life as well as a tendency of fatigue symptoms to decrease in cancer patients under complementary homeopathic treatment. It would take considerably larger samples to find matched pairs suitable for comparison in order to establish a definite causal relation between these effects and homeopathic treatment.
Source : BMC Cancer
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In vitro and in vivo anticancer properties of a Calcarea carbonica derivative complex (M8) treatment in a murine melanoma model
Fernando SF Guimarães1, Lucas F Andrade1, Sharon T Martins1, Ana PR Abud1, Reginaldo V Sene1,
Carla Wanderer1, Inés Tiscornia2, Mariela Bollati-Fogolín2, Dorly F Buchi1, Edvaldo S Trindade1*
Abstract
Background:
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer and the most rapidly expanding cancer in terms of worldwide incidence. Chemotherapeutic approaches to treat melanoma have had only marginal success. Previous studies in mice demonstrated that a high diluted complex derived from Calcarea carbonica (M8) stimulated the tumoricidal response of activated lymphocytes against B16F10 melanoma cells in vitro.
Methods:
Here we describe the in vitro inhibition of invasion and the in vivo anti-metastatic potential after M8 treatment by inhalation in the B16F10 lung metastasis model.
Results:
We found that M8 has at least two functions, acting as both an inhibitor of cancer cell adhesion and invasion and as a perlecan expression antagonist, which are strongly correlated with several metastatic, angiogenic and invasive factors in melanoma tumors.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest that this medication is a promising non-toxic therapy candidate by improving the immune response against tumor cells or even induce direct dormancy in malignancies.
Source : Biomed Central
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Stimulation of lymphocyte anti-melanoma activity by co-cultured macrophages activated by complex homeopathic medication
Fernando SF Guimarães, Ana PR Abud, Simone M Oliveira, Carolina C Oliveira, Beatriz César, Lucas F Andrade, Lucélia Donatti, Juarez Gabardo, Edvaldo S Trindade, and Dorly F Buchi
Departamento de Biologia Celular, Laboratório de Pesquisa em Células Inflamatórias e Neoplásicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba – PR, Brazil
Abstract
Background
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, and the most rapidly expanding cancer in terms of worldwide incidence. Chemotherapeutic approaches to treat melanoma have been uniformly disappointing. A Brazilian complex homeopathic medication (CHM), used as an immune modulator, has been recommended for patients with depressed immune systems. Previous studies in mice have demonstrated that the CHM activates macrophages, induces an increase in the number of leukocytes and improves the murine response against Sarcoma-180
Conclusion
Co-culture of macrophages with lymphocytes in the presence of the CHM enhanced the anti-cancer performance of lymphocytes against a very aggressive lineage of melanoma cells. These results suggest that non-toxic therapies using CHMs are a promising alternative approach to the treatment of melanomas. In addition, they are attractive combination-therapy candidates, which may enhance the efficacy of conventional medicines by improving the immune response against tumor cells.
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Ruta 6 selectively induces cell death in brain cancer cells but proliferation in normal peripheral blood lymphocytes: A novel treatment for human brain cancer
SEN PATHAK1,2, ASHA S. MULTANI1, PRATIP BANERJI3 and PRASANTA BANERJI3
Departments of 1Cancer Biology and 2Laboratory Medicine, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
3PBH Research Foundation, 10/3/1 Elgin Road, Kolkata 700 020, West Bengal, India
Abstract.
Although conventional chemotherapies are used to treat patients with malignancies, damage to normal cells is problematic. Blood-forming bone marrow cells are the most adversely affected. It is therefore necessary to find alternative agents that can kill cancer cells but have minimal effects on normal cells. We investigated the brain cancer cell-killing activity of a homeopathic medicine, Ruta, isolated from a plant, Ruta graveolens. We treated human brain cancer and HL-60 leukemia cells, normal B-lymphoid cells, and murine melanoma cells in vitro with different concentrations of Ruta in combination with Ca3(PO4)2. Fifteen patients diagnosed with intracranial tumors were treated with Ruta 6 and Ca3(PO4)2. Of these 15 patients, 6 of the 7 glioma patients showed complete regression of tumors. Normal human blood lymphocytes, B-lymphoid cells, and brain cancer cells treated with Ruta in vitro were examined for telomere dynamics, mitotic catastrophe, and apoptosis to understand the possible mechanism of cell-killing, using conventional and molecular cytogenetic techniques. Both in vivo and in vitro results showed induction of survival-signaling pathways in normal lymphocytes and induction of death-signaling pathways in brain cancer cells. Cancer cell death was initiated by telomere erosion and completed through mitotic catastrophe events. We propose that Ruta in combination with Ca3(PO4)2 could be used for effective treatment of brain cancers, particularly glioma.
Source : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 23: 975-982, 2003 975
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Homeopathic medicines for adverse effects of cancer treatments
Sosie Kassab, Mike Cummings, Saul Berkovitz, Robbert van Haselen, Peter Fisher
Royal London Homoeopathic Hospital, London, UK. 2British Medical Acupuncture Society, London, UK. 3INTMEDI, Surrey, UK
Homeopathic medicines are used by many patients with cancer, usually alongside conventional treatment. Cancer treatments can cause adverse effects, and one of the reasons patients use homeopathic medicines is to help with these symptoms. This review looked at whether these medicines could help patients with problems caused by cancer treatments. Eight studies with a total of 664 participants were included in this review. Three studied adverse effects of radiotherapy, three studied adverse effects of chemotherapy and two studied menopausal symptoms associated with breast cancer treatment. Two studies with low risk of bias demonstrated benefit: one with 254 participants demonstrated benefits from calendula ointment in the prevention of radiotherapy-induced dermatitis, and another with 32 participants demonstrated benefits from Traumeel S (a complex homeopathic medicine) over placebo as a mouthwash for chemotherapy-induced stomatitis. These trials need replicating. Two other studies reported positive results, although the risk of bias was unclear, and four further studies reported negative results. The homeopathic medicines used in all eight studies did not seem to cause any serious adverse effects or interact with conventional treatment. No cancer treatments were modified or stopped because of the homeopathic interventions.
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Induction of Apoptosis of Tumor Cells by Some Potentiated Homeopathic Drugs:Implications on Mechanisms of Action
Preethi K, Ellanghiyil S, Kuttan G, Kuttan R.
Abstract
Homoeopathic medicines treat diseases, including cancer, using ultradiluted preparations. Earlier studies indicated that homoeopathic medicines are cytotoxic to tumor cells and reduced animal tumors. However, the mechanism of homoeopathic medicines at the cellular level is not known.
METHODS:
The following drugs were used in the study: Ruta 200C, Carcinosinum 200C, Hydrastis 200C, Thuja 200C, and Thuja 1M. These drugs were tested for their ability to induce apoptosis as seen by morphology, DNA laddering, expression of genes related to apoptosis, and TUNEL assay. Similarly, the effect of homoeopathic medicines on apoptosis was measured by microarray analysis. Activity of Ruta 200C was compared with that of the mother tincture.
RESULTS:
Ruta 200C produced morphological changes in the Dalton's lymphoma ascites tumor cells and induced DNA laddering. Carcinosinum 200C increased apoptotic gene p53 and Ruta 200C decreased antiapoptotic gene Bcl2. Administration of potentiated homoeopathic drugs to tumor-bearing mice induced TUNEL-positive cells in the tumor, showing increased apoptosis of tumor cells. Microarray analysis of cells treated with homoeopathic drugs indicated that many enzymes related to apoptosis were increased by homoeopathic drugs.
CONCLUSION: These data indicate that apoptosis is one of the mechanisms of tumor reduction of homeopathic drugs. A comparison of potentiated drugs with their mother tincture indicated that the potentiated drugs have biological activity similar to that of their mother tincture in spite of ultradilution.
Source : Integr Cancer Ther. 2011 Jul 19
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Psorinum Therapy in Treating Stomach, Gall Bladder, Pancreatic, and Liver Cancers: A Prospective Clinical Study
Aradeep Chatterjee,1 Jaydip Biswas,2 Ashim Chatterjee,1 Sudin Bhattacharya,2 Bishnu Mukhopadhyay,3 and Syamsundar Mandal2
...."The limitation of this study is that it did not have any placebo or treatment control arm; therefore, it cannot be concluded that Psorinum Therapy is effective in improving the survival and the quality of life of the participants due to the academic rigours of the scientific clinical trials. This study also cannot rule out the effects of the implemented allopathic and homeopathic supportive measures in the observed results. However, the results of the study showed a fair number of complete and partial tumor responses along with impressive survival outcomes in difficult to treat cancer types. Therefore, randomized double-blind clinical trial, detailed molecular, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics studies should be conducted for further scientific exploration of this alternative cancer treatment to determine if it can be integrated into the mainstream oncology."
Source: Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Volume 2011 (2011), Article ID 724743, 7 pages doi:10.1155/2011/724743
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Cytotoxic effects of ultra-diluted remedies on breast cancer cells
Moshe Frenkel, Bal Mukund Mishra, Subrata Sen, Peiying Yang, Alison Pawlus, Luis Vence, Aimee Leblanc, Lorenzo Cohen, Pratip Banerji, Prasanta Banerji
"In summary, our study demonstrates that the ultra-diluted natural product remedies prescribed in the ‘Banerji Protocol’ induce cell cycle delay/arrest with subsequent apoptosis in breast adenocarcinoma cells. Though the degree of the antisurvival effect appeared to correlate with the presence of the wild-type p53 gene, overall susceptibility to the inhibitory effects of the remedies appeared independent of the functional p53 and estrogen-receptor status of the breast carcinoma cells. Finally, the preferentially elevated cytotoxic effects on breast adenocarcinoma cells compared with cells derived from normal mammary epithelium raises the exciting
possibility of a window of therapeutic opportunity for preferentially eliminating breast cancer cells with minimal
damage to the surrounding normal mammary tissue by using the ultra-diluted remedies investigated in this report. The findings of this study should encourage further preclinical and animal investigation of these remedies as preventive and/or therapeutic treatments for breast cancer."
Source : International Journal of Oncology
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Homeopathy and Cancer - Study - Moshe Frenkel, MD
"In summary, data from multiple research disciplines, ranging from studies that evaluate the effect of homeopathic remedies on cancer cell lines to scientifically valid animal and clinical studies, raise some clues that necessitate further studies. Several published outcome studies and the randomized clinical trials mentioned in this article suggest two main results. First, the homeopathic remedies used in the clinical trials that were mentioned appear to be safe and without adverse effects. Second, there may be a role for homeopathy in improving quality of life in some cancer patients. Such effects have not been demonstrated unequivocally, and specific antitumor effects have not been shown in any controlled clinical research to date. However, the positive reports from the few laboratory experiments in cancer models that are mentioned in this review are indeed noteworthy. Appropriate clinical trials are still needed to investigate the use of homeopathy in cancer care."
Source :
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Homeopathy and cancer - article from a Newspaper in New Delhi, India on the use of homeopathy and cancer
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