Neem might efficiently work to cure cancer, researchers claim

Scientists are constantly searching for newer ways to cure the demon, that's cancer. And scientists at the Hyderabad-based National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research might just have found a plant that can help in their area of research. Researchers from the Institute claim that they have found that Nimbolide, a chemical compound derived from neem leaves and flowers, may efficiently work towards curing breast cancer.

The scientists are now approaching various agencies like departments of biotechnology, AYUSH for funds to carry out further research and take up clinical trials, said scientist Chandraiah Godugu. In India especially, neem trees can be found in abundance. In addition to its anti-cancer property, neem may prove to be a promising chemo-preventive agent, said Mr Godugu, who is part of the research program. Now, while neem has always been used for its medicinal properties, scientific evidence of its effectiveness is lacking.

"We recently proved anti-cancer efficacy of Nimbolide in breast cancer by novel molecular pathways. It induces cell death and inhibits proliferation of cancer cells," Mr Godugu told a leading news agency. "Nimbolide is a novel compound with promising pre-clinical efficacy against multiple types of cancer," he added. Continuing, "It may prove beneficial against relapsed tumours, which pose the challenge of drug resistance. It may even kill the dormant and resistant cancer stem cells."

Before signing off, Mr Godugu also added that the researchers are hopeful that in another four to five years, they expect a formulation of clinical translational value with the entry of the most promising formulation to the Phase-I clinical trials.