Leukocyte modulation by natural products from herbal medicines and potential as cancer immunotherapy

J Leukoc Biol. 2022 Jul;112(1):185-200. doi: 10.1002/JLB.3RU0222-087RRR. Epub 2022 May 25.

Abstract

Cancer constitutes a kind of life-threatening disease that is prevalent throughout the world. In light of limitations in conventional chemotherapies or radiotherapies, cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a potent strategy in treating cancer. In cancer immunotherapy, preliminary studies have demonstrated that cancer immune surveillance serves a crucial role in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. Herbal medicines and natural products, which serve as alternative medicines, are involved in the modulation of tumor immunosurveillance to enhance antitumor activity. Accordingly, this review aimed to summarize the modulation function of herbal medicines and natural products on tumor immunosurveillance while providing scientific insight into further research on its molecular mechanism and potential clinical applications.

Keywords: adaptive immunity, natural products; cancer, herbal medicines, immunosurveillance, innate immunity.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biological Products* / pharmacology
  • Biological Products* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Surveillance
  • Immunotherapy
  • Leukocytes
  • Neoplasms* / therapy

Substances

  • Biological Products