Apigenin: a promising molecule for cancer prevention

Pharm Res. 2010 Jun;27(6):962-78. doi: 10.1007/s11095-010-0089-7. Epub 2010 Mar 20.

Abstract

Apigenin, a naturally occurring plant flavone, abundantly present in common fruits and vegetables, is recognized as a bioactive flavonoid shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties. Epidemiologic studies suggest that a diet rich in flavones is related to a decreased risk of certain cancers, particularly cancers of the breast, digestive tract, skin, prostate and certain hematological malignancies. It has been suggested that apigenin may be protective in other diseases that are affected by oxidative process, such as cardiovascular and neurological disorders, although more research needs to be conducted in this regard. Human clinical trials examining the effect of supplementation of apigenin on disease prevention have not been conducted, although there is considerable potential for apigenin to be developed as a cancer chemopreventive agent.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anticarcinogenic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Apigenin / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / diet therapy
  • Neoplasms / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Anticarcinogenic Agents
  • Apigenin