Garlic (Allium sativum) derives much of its anticancer
properties from sulfur-containing metabolites generated when cloves are
crushed, including Allicin and its more stable rearrangement product Z‑Ajoene.
Despite its rapid degradation, Allicin induces mitochondrial-driven apoptosis,
changes the Nrf2 pathway to alter cellular redox balance, and inhibits drug
efflux proteins (such as P glycoprotein) to render chemotherapy-resistant
cancer cells more susceptible. Z‑Ajoene has multiple effects,
including triggering endoplasmic reticulum stress_(upregulating BiP/GRP78 and
activating the PERK/ATF4/CHOP axis blocking Wnt/β_catenin
signaling through CK1α-mediated β-catenin
phosphorylation, reducing oncogenic drivers like c-Myc, disrupting vimentin
filaments to impair invasion, and selectively targeting cancer stem cells
through AKT, TGF_β, Notch, and ERK/p38 pathways. Recent translational efforts
include nanoformulation of Allicin for better stability and delivery, as well
as combination regimens matching these drugs with traditional chemotherapeutics
(e.g., 5-FU, paclitaxel), which demonstrate synergistic tumour suppression and
lower systemic toxicity. Nanocage-based delivery systems, such as Al₁₂N₁₂ and
B₁₂N₁₂, enhance allicin’s stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery,
significantly improving its therapeutic potential.
Author(s) Details
Shivani L. Bhuse
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, PES Modern College of Pharmacy,
Nigdi-411044, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Pallavi M. Patil
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, PES Modern College of Pharmacy,
Nigdi-411044, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Rajat R. Durbule
Department of Quality Assurance Technique, PES Modern College of Pharmacy,
Nigdi-411044, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Prathmesh B. Parkale
Department of Quality Assurance Technique, PES Modern College of Pharmacy,
Nigdi-411044, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/msraa/v9/6041
