Apoptotic efficiency of aqueous extracts of turmeric, garlic and their active compounds in combination with Tamoxifen in lung and oral cancers: A comparative study

In the present study we have attempted to evaluate the efficacy of Curcumin longa and Allium sativum aqueous extracts individually and in combination with its active compounds (Curcumin and Quercetin) and also with Tamoxifen hydrochloride. Our results suggest that aqueous extracts of Curcumin longa and Allium sativum were effective in inducing apoptosis and cell death in two immortal cell lines i.e. A549 and SCC-9 (Adeno carcinoma of lung, squamous cell carcinoma of tongue), but there was no apoptosis or cell senescence in normal cell line (HEK 293). There was significant increase in apoptosis and cell senescence in combination therapy. Hence a combination of natural extracts along with Tamoxifen can be considered an alternate in cancer treatments but this requires more research.