Research progress on the anti-tumor effect of Codonopsis pilosula

Currently,the mortality rate of malignant tumors ranks second globally,surpassed only by cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.The treatment of malignant tumors poses a formidable challenge to both modern medicine and traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).To date,TCM has developed a substantial foundational theoretical understanding and accumulated significant clinical experience in combating tumors.According to TCM foundational theories,"Qi deficiency"is a critical symptom associated with cancer,and"fortifying the body's vitality while expelling pathogens"is the cornerstone of TCM's approach to tumor treatment and bodily balance.Codonopsis pilosula(CP),a Qi-invigorating herb,is known to invigorat the spleen,benefit the lungs,nourish the blood,and promote bodily fluids.It is often employed as a substitute for ginseng in clinical settings.Prolonged clinical observations have identified key active constituents of CP,such as Codonopsis polysaccharides,isoimperatorin,saponins,lobetyolin,sesquiterpene lactones,and muscone.These ingredients exhibit various therapeutic properties,including anti-tumor,immunomodulatory,anti-infective,antioxidant,and hematopoiesis-enhancing effects.Additionally,when CP is combined with other TCM herbs like Astragalus and Atractylodes macrocephala,it bolsters the body's vital energy and rejuvenates both Qi and blood.CP can be used in combination with chemotherapy agents to mitigate the adverse effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.Moreover,CP demonstrates potential in preventing precancerous lesions.This review summarizes recent research findings on the anti-tumor properties of CP,elucidates the anti-tumor effects and molecular mechanisms of its active components,provides a basis for promoting the utilization of CP resources and its active constituents,and offers insights for the research and development of new anti-tumor drugs.