Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a source of new anticancer drugs

Covering: up to July 2020 Drugs derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) include both single chemical entities and multi-component preparations. Drugs of both types play a significant role in the healthcare system in China, but are not well-known outside China. The research and development process, the molecular mechanisms of action, and the clinical evaluation associated with some exemplificative anticancer drugs based on TCM are discussed, along with their potential of integration in western medicine.

Automated summary

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-derived drugs include both single chemical entities and multi-component preparations, playing a significant role in the healthcare system in China. This article discusses the research and development process, molecular mechanisms, and clinical evaluation of some exemplificative anticancer drugs based on TCM, as well as their potential integration in western medicine.