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Studies show that morusines can stop the growth of colorectal cancer cells and prevent the formation of cancer cell clusters. It also targets key proteins involved in the growth of cancer stem cells, helping to limit the cancer’s ability to spread and persist. By assigning specific molecular pathways essential to cancer development, the morusine appears to be an innovative treatment option for colorectal cancer.
Gastric cancer
Studies in gastric cancer cell lines have shown that morobists can inhibit cancer cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. It works by blocking the cell cycle, which prevents cancer cells from dividing and growing. Morusine also reduces the expression of proteins bound to cancer progression, such as c-Myc, and has been shown to reduce tumour size in animal models. These results indicate that the morusine could also be a useful component or treatment strategy for gastric cancer, potentially enhancing therapies or offering an alternative option for patients.
Glioblastoma multiforme
Morusine has shown potential in targeting glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cancer stem cells, one of the most aggressive and deadly types of brain tumours, as it contains CSCs resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These stem cells help tumours to reform even after treatment.
In the studies, morusine has been shown to inhibit the growth of GBM cells and reduce the formation of CSC clusters. Morusine also triggers the death of cancer cells by affecting important proteins that control cell cycle and apoptosis, such as the increase in Bax and caspase-3, which promote cell death, and the decrease in Bcl-2, which helps cancer cells survive. In addition, morusine reduces the expression of stem cell markers, weakening their ability to promote tumour growth.
Kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma)
Research indicates that morusines can stop the growth and spread of renal cell carcinoma (JRC) cells. This type of cancer often starts in the outer layer of the kidney and can also affect the collecting tubes of the kidneys.
Morusine causes cancer cells to self-destruct, preventing them from dividing and moving. The bioactive compound affects the signalling pathways important for the growth and survival of cancer cells. In mouse studies, morusine has also been shown to slow down the growth of CCR tumours.
Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
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