Title:Biotechnology of <i>Viscum Album</i> L. and Cancer Treatment: A Review
VOLUME: 16 ISSUE: 6
Author(s):Vasileios Tsekouras* and Spyridon Kintzios
Affiliation:Department of Biotechnology, School of Food Science, Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Department of Biotechnology, School of Food Science, Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens
Keywords:Mistletoe, biotechnology, extracts, lectins, in vitro, in vivo, chemotherapy.
Abstract:
Background: This review aims to highlight biotechnological techniques applied for the identification,
isolation and propagation of mistletoe-derived bioactive compounds and the preclinical
evaluation of their anticancer properties.
Methods: We undertook a structured search of bibliographic databases to identify and evaluate the literature,
regarding biotechnology of mistletoe and malignancy treatment. The selected articles were classified
into five modules according to the study design.
Results: Firstly, we have provided an overview of the role of biotechnology in plant-derived pharmaceuticals,
by reviewing twelve articles. Then, V. album L. botany and a retrospection of the plant pharmaceutical
applications are presented from a set of ten articles. Subsequently, mistletoe derived compounds
and their anticancer properties are highlighted, throughout sixty-two articles, which emphasized
the mechanisms of antitumor action. The next module is referred to as the biosynthesis of mistletoe
bioactive compounds, covering nine cases of ‘in vitro’ propagation and genetic manipulation. Finally,
fourteen assays regarding mistletoe preparations and preclinical testing for chemosensitivity are presented.
Conclusion: Biotechnology provides essential tools for the identification, production and evaluation of
anticancer compounds derived from Viscum album L. The preclinical studies indicate the potential use
of V. album preparations in chemotherapy but further research is essential for standardizing the therapeutic
benefits of mistletoe compounds in the treatment of malignancies.