What are the Main Types of Plant Alkaloids Used in Cancer Treatment?
Several plant alkaloids are used in cancer treatment, including:
- Vinca Alkaloids: Derived from the periwinkle plant, these include vincristine and vinblastine. They are used to treat various cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia, and breast cancer.
- Taxanes: These include paclitaxel and docetaxel, derived from the Pacific yew tree. They are effective against breast, ovarian, and lung cancers.
- Camptothecins: Derived from the Chinese tree Camptotheca acuminata, these include irinotecan and topotecan. They are used for colorectal and ovarian cancer treatment.
- Epipodophyllotoxins: Derived from the American Mayapple plant, these include etoposide and teniposide. They are used in the treatment of lung cancer and testicular cancer.
