Garcinol, a polyisoprenylated benzophenone, is extracted from the rind of the fruit of Garcinia indica, a plant found extensively in tropical regions. Although the fruit has been consumed traditionally over centuries, its biological activities, specifically its anticancer potential is a result of recent scientific investigations. The anticarcinogenic properties of garcinol appear to be moderated via its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and proapoptotic activities. In addition, garcinol displays effective epigenetic influence by inhibiting histone acetyltransferases (HAT 300) and by possible posttranscriptional modulation by mi RNA profiles involved in carcinogenesis. In vitro as well as some in vivo studies have shown the potential of this compound against several cancers types including breast, colon, pancreatic, and leukemia. Although this is a promising molecule in terms of its anticancer properties, investigations in relevant animal models, and subsequent human trials are warranted in order to fully appreciate and confirm its chemopreventative and/or therapeutic potential. 1. Introduction The extract from the fruit of Garcinia indica, popularly known as Kokum or Mangosteen has been valued in the Indian subcontinent, Africa, and China for its sweet and sour taste and has traditionally been used as a seasoning, a snack, or steeped in syrup for a refreshing drink. In addition, it has been recommended by the Ayurvedic system of medicine for treatment of ailments such as heat strokes, infections, and edema [1]. The major chemical constituents of the fruit extract include citric acid, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), hydroxycitric acid lactone, and oxalic acid in addition to the benzophenone derivatives, garcinol, and its isomer isogarcinol [1]. Of these, HCA has shown hypocholesterolemic and antiobesity activity, while the benzophenone derivatives have been associated more closely with antioxidant behavior. In this paper, we will concentrate on the biological properties of garcinol with a specific focus on its anticarcinogenic capabilities. Figure 2 gives an overview of the mechanistic insight into the anticancer activity of garcinol. 2. Chemical Properties of Garcinol Garcinol (C38H50O6; molecular weight 602), a yellow crystalline compound, with a melting point of 132°C is structurally similar to curcumin, an established antioxidant, antiaging, and anticarcinogenic agent, by virtue of containing both phenolic hydroxyl groups and the β-diketone moiety [2]. The chemical structure of garcinol, also known as Camboginol (Figure 1), was elucidated
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