Anticarcinogenic Effects of α-Mangostin: A Review

Cancer chemoprevention is a promising strategy taken to block, reverse, or retard carcinogenesis. alpha-Mangostin, a natural xanthone isolated from the pericarps of mangosteen, represents one of the most studied chemopreventive agents. This compound has been reported to interfere with all the major stages of carcinogenesis: initiation, promotion, and progression. A number of mechanisms have been proposed for its anticarcinogenic activities. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the mechanisms that contribute to the observed activity of a-mangostin related to (i) modulation of carcinogenic biotransformation and mitigation of oxidative damage, (ii) induction of growth arrest and apoptosis, (iii) suppression of angiogenesis and metastasis, and (iv) combination with clinical chemotherapy drugs enhancing their efficacy and decreasing the toxic side effects. In addition, pharmacokinetic and toxicological studies of a-mangostin have also been highlighted in this review. Despite an overwhelming amount of knowledge in preclinical studies, there was almost no translation of a-mangostin into the clinic. It is hoped that continuous extensive and profound research will lead to the application of a-mangostin from experimental studies to evidence-based, clinically applicable pharmacotherapy.