Abstract
BACKGROUND: Cancer remains a global health challenge, and natural plant-based compounds show potential in prevention. Calligonum polygonoides Linn., a drought- and frost-resistant shrub native to the Thar desert, has adaptive resilience and ethnomedicinal applications. This study explores C. polygonoides stem extract (CPSE) against DMBA-induced two stage skin carcinogenesis in male Swiss albino mice. METHODS: Skin carcinogenesis was induced in male Swiss albino mice using a single topical application of carcinogen DMBA (100 µg/animal), followed by the application of promotor croton oil (1% solution) thrice weekly as a tumour promoter, starting two weeks after DMBA initiation. CPSE was orally administered at a dose of 600 mg/kg body weight/day (100 µL per animal). Tumour incidence, yield, and burden were assessed, along with biochemical markers of oxidative stress in skin and liver tissues, including reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxidation (LPO), total protein, and vitamin C levels. RESULTS: Mice treated with CPSE demonstrated a significant reduction in tumour incidence, yield, and burden compared to the carcinogen-treated control group. Additionally, CPSE administration significantly modulated oxidative stress and biochemical parameters in both skin and liver tissues. The CPSE-treated group exhibited decreased LPO levels and elevated antioxidant enzyme activities (GSH, SOD, and CAT), along with elevated total protein content and vitamin C levels, indicating enhanced systemic antioxidant defences. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study reveal the significant cancer chemo-preventive potential of C. polygonoides stem extract. Its ability to reduce tumour progression and modulate oxidative stress underscores its promise as a natural agent for cancer prevention. These results highlight C. polygonoides as a potential source for the development of cost-effective and sustainable cancer prevention strategies.