Unlocking cancer-fighting secrets of China's "Tree of Life"

Chinese medicine has used this plant for years, predominantly treating skin diseases. Known also as the "tree of life" or "cancer tree", the latter moniker owes itself to anticancer properties discovered by American researchers in 1996.

The anticancer potency of Camptotheca acuminata is attributed to camptothecin (CPT), an alkaloid scientists have isolated from the tree's bark and stems. Research revealed that this compound possesses both anticancer and cytotoxic properties. So, what does that mean?

Basically, camptothecin triggers the death of the cancer cell by damaging its DNA. Preliminary studies have indicated its efficacy in treating lung, colon, ovarian, stomach, and breast cancer.

Derivatives of camptothecin have for years been crucial in treating small-cell lung cancer, cervical cancer, and ovarian cancer. Four CPT analogs, namely trastuzumab derukstekan, topotecan, belotecan, and irinotecan, have been approved as part of chemotherapy treatments. However, the investigation continues into their anticancer properties in other cancer types, such as gliomas, neuroblastomas, and nervous system-related cancers.

Scientists worldwide are on a quest to find the most effective arsenal against cancer, and it's become evident that many natural compounds may be the answer. Some proven examples are silybin found in milk thistle, apigenin in celery or parsley, capsaicin in spicy peppers, epigallocatechins in green tea, and quercetin, an antioxidant present in apples and onions.