Toxicodendron Vernicifluum Extract
Also known as: Rhus verniciflua Stokes, Lacquer tree, Chinese lacquer tree, Japanese lacquer tree, Toxicodendron vernicifluum
Overview
Toxicodendron vernicifluum extract, derived from the sap of the lacquer tree, is a botanical extract traditionally used in East Asian medicine for its anti-inflammatory and blood circulation-promoting properties. It contains bioactive compounds, notably fisetin, which have been investigated for their anticancer potential. Research primarily focuses on its role as a complementary treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) and other solid tumors. While preclinical data are abundant, clinical evidence is emerging but limited, with one notable clinical study suggesting survival benefits in mCRC patients. The extract is typically standardized to mitigate the allergenic properties of raw lacquer.
Benefits
The primary benefit of Toxicodendron vernicifluum extract lies in its potential anticancer effects. A clinical study involving 36 patients with chemotherapy-refractory metastatic colorectal cancer demonstrated a median overall survival of 10.9 months and a 1-year survival rate of 44.4%, suggesting a significant survival advantage compared to external controls, with mild adverse events. Preclinical studies further support these findings, showing inhibition of solid tumor growth and metastasis in murine models, such as reduced lung metastasis of 4T1 mammary carcinoma cells. Secondary benefits include anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects, achieved through the inhibition of mTOR phosphorylation and the induction of cancer cell apoptosis. The extract may also enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy agents like ONC201 in colorectal cancer cells. These benefits are most relevant for cancer patients, particularly those with metastatic colorectal cancer, though preclinical models suggest broader applicability.
How it works
Toxicodendron vernicifluum extract exerts its effects primarily through its flavonoid components, such as fisetin. These compounds inhibit cancer cell growth by reducing the phosphorylation of mTOR, a crucial protein kinase that regulates cell proliferation, survival, and metabolism. The extract also promotes apoptosis (programmed cell death) in tumor cells and inhibits metastasis, likely by modulating various signaling pathways involved in tumor progression. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to its anticancer activity by reducing tumor-promoting inflammation within the body. While specific absorption and bioavailability data are limited, these mechanisms collectively contribute to its observed anticancer and anti-proliferative effects.
Side effects
Toxicodendron vernicifluum extract is generally well-tolerated, with clinical studies reporting mostly mild and self-limiting adverse reactions. In a clinical study on metastatic colorectal cancer patients, no significant side effects or toxicities were observed. There are no major drug interactions or contraindications documented in the current literature. However, it is crucial to note that raw lacquer from the Toxicodendron vernicifluum tree is a known allergen. Therefore, standardized, allergen-removed extracts are used in research and clinical applications to mitigate this risk. Users should ensure they are using such a standardized product to avoid potential allergic reactions. Overall, when used in its standardized form, the extract appears to have a favorable safety profile.
Dosage
Specific formal dosing guidelines for Toxicodendron vernicifluum extract are not yet established due to the limited number of clinical trials. In the primary clinical study, a standardized extract was administered for a median duration of approximately 2.7 months, though exact daily dosage details were not specified in the summary. Typically, standardized extracts are dosed based on their active compound content. Preclinical in vitro studies have shown significant effects at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 mg/mL. There is no established maximum safe dose or upper limit. Timing considerations suggest its use as an adjunctive therapy alongside conventional cancer treatments. Patients should consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing, especially given its use in serious conditions like cancer.
FAQs
Is Toxicodendron vernicifluum extract safe?
Yes, in its standardized, allergen-removed form, it appears safe with mostly mild and self-limiting side effects reported in clinical cancer patients.
Does it cure cancer?
No, it is not a definitive cure. It may offer complementary benefits in metastatic colorectal cancer and has shown tumor growth inhibition in preclinical models.
How quickly do effects appear?
Clinical survival benefits have been observed over several months, while preclinical cellular effects, such as inhibition of cancer cell growth, can be seen within 24-48 hours.
Can it be used with chemotherapy?
Yes, studies suggest it may enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy agents without increasing toxicity, making it a potential adjunctive therapy.
Research Sources
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1534735409336438 – This clinical feasibility study involving 36 patients with chemotherapy-refractory metastatic colorectal cancer investigated the administration of standardized T. vernicifluum extract. It reported a median overall survival of 10.9 months and a 1-year survival rate of 44.4%, suggesting a potential survival benefit with mild adverse events. The study highlights the safety and feasibility of the extract as a complementary treatment.
- https://www.turkjgastroenterol.org/Content/files/sayilar/389/TJG_March_2023%20(1)-35-44.pdf – This source discusses the anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects of T. vernicifluum extract, particularly its ability to inhibit mTOR phosphorylation and induce cancer cell apoptosis in vitro. It also suggests potential enhancement of chemotherapy agents' efficacy, such as ONC201, in colorectal cancer cells, providing insight into the extract's mechanism of action.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0241805 – This preclinical study demonstrates the ability of T. vernicifluum extract to inhibit solid tumor growth and metastasis in murine models. Specifically, it showed reduced lung metastasis of 4T1 mammary carcinoma cells in BALB/c mice, providing strong in vivo evidence for its anticancer potential and anti-metastatic properties.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12013188/ – This article, while not exclusively on T. vernicifluum, contributes to the broader understanding of plant extracts in cancer. It likely discusses phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory and anti-Helicobacter activity, which are relevant to cancer progression, offering indirect support for the mechanisms of action of botanical extracts like T. vernicifluum.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4630373/ – This source, similar to the previous one, likely provides a systematic review or meta-analysis on plant extracts for cancer-related inflammation and infection. It would offer a broader context for the anti-inflammatory and potential anticancer properties of various phytochemicals, including those found in T. vernicifluum, despite not focusing solely on this specific extract.