Systematic analyses validates in vitro and in vivo anticancer properties of the Ayurvedic plant Achyranthes aspera

Leaves of the plant Achyranthes aspera (Family: Amaranthacea) is used to treat pancreatic cancer (PaCa) by ayurvedic practitioners. Due to traditional use, its anti-tumor properties and clinical usage remains anecdotal. Here we demonstrate A. aspera preferentially inhibited the proliferation of cultured human pancreatic cancer cells, and growth of human pancreatic cancer in athymic mice. Preliminary mechanistic analyses indicate induction of caspase-3, dephosphorylation of Akt-1, inhibition of angiogenic and metastatic specific genes. Detailed results will be discussed.