Inhibition of tumor growth by quercetin with increase of survival and prevention of cachexia in Walker 256 tumor-bearing rats

► Up to 80% of patients with advanced cancers are affected by cancer cachexia accounting for nearly 30% of cancer-related deaths. ► The toxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs in normal cells is a serious problem with significant side effects on cancer treatment. ► The flavonoid quercetin inhibits tumors growth and increases survival and prevention of cachexia in Walker 256 tumor-bearing rats. ► Decrease of MMP-2 and VEGF levels strongly support the anticancer function of quercetin.