Immunomodulatory and anticancer effects of moringa polyherbal infusions: potentials for preventive and therapeutic use.

INTRODUCTION

Plant-based phytochemicals have shown potential as agents against cancer through various biological pathways, including immune system modulation. Combining natural compounds with synergistic interactions enhances the identification of molecular targets in cancer cells, demonstrating anticancer capabilities. The "miracle tree," (Moringa), possesses remarkable nutritional and medicinal properties.

AIM

This study assesses the anti-tumor and immunomodulatory characteristics of aqueous leaf extract and its combinations with green tea, saffron, lavender, and turmeric.

METHODS

The MTT assay evaluated the anti-proliferative effectiveness of uncombined and its combinations against three breast cancer cell lines. Quantitative LC-MS/MS spectrometry was performed on the most potent extracts. The Nitro Blue Tetrazolium Assay and Neutral Red Method were used to assess the effects of each extract on macrophage phagocytic and pinocytosis functions. Lymphocyte proliferation was also tested.

RESULTS

The anti-proliferative activity of Moringa-saffron showed the strongest anti-proliferative effect on T47-D and EMT6/P, with IC values of 1.14 ± 0.05 and 1.65 ± 0.27 mg/ml, respectively. The Moringa-green tea combination exhibited the highest anti-proliferative action against MDA-MB-231 among all combinations, with a 5.78 ± 0.06 mg/ml IC value. Moringa-lavender and Moringa-turmeric extracts showed minimal antiproliferation action. In contrast, uncombined Moringa had the lowest activity on the tested cell lines, with an IC greater than 6 mg/ml. For the immunomodulatory tests, Moringa-saffron and Moringa-green tea were the most effective combinations; they significantly induced macrophage phagocytosis, pinocytosis, and lymphocyte proliferation simultaneously. The LC-MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenols, coumarins, and alkaloids in the Moringa-saffron and Moringa-green tea combinations, which, along with their immune modulation activities, could contribute to their anticancer potential.

CONCLUSION

When combined with saffron or green tea, Moringa can effectively combat cancer and enhance immunomodulatory properties. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanism of action of these herbal infusions.