Exploring immunomodulatory and anticancer properties of zerumbone

Abstract

Plant-derived immunomodulators and anti-cancer agents have attracted a lot of interest from natural products scientists for their efficacy and safety, and their significant contribution towards understanding the targeted drug action and drug delivery mechanisms. Zerumbone, the main constituent of Zingiber zerumbet rhizomes, has been investigated for its wide spectrum role in treating multitargeted diseases. The rhizomes have been used as food flavoring agents in various cuisines and herbal medicine. Many in vivo and in-vitro studies have provided evidence of zerumbone as a potent immunomodulator as well as a potential anti-cancer agent. This review is an interesting compilation of all those significant outcomes from investigations carried out to date to explore the immunomodulatory and anticancer properties of zerumbone. The ultimate objective of this comprehensive review is to provide updated information and a critical assessment on zerumbone including its chemistry, immunomodulating and anticancer properties which may be of paramount importance to provide a new path for ensuing research to discover new agents to treat cancers and immunerelated diseases. In addition, updated information on the toxicology of zerumbone has also been summarized to provide its safety profile.