| Since current therapies are not keeping cancer at bay, other novel therapies may give new hope for cancer patients. In 1971, Judah Folkman suggested that tumor growth is angiogenisis-dependent. This theory sparked the search for a compound that has the ability to inhibit the growth of new blood vessels on pre-existing ones, an anti-angiogenic compound. In this study, we will show the anti-angiogenic properties of naturally occurring tannins. Fractions isolated from pomegranate containing naturally occurring tannins were screened for anti-angiogenic effects. The results show the extracted white pith is the most potent fraction for inhibiting endothelial cells. The Boyden-Chamber assay findings suggest inhibition of endothelial cell migration. Furthermore we have shown the fraction inhibits matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 using gelatin zymography. These results suggest the anti-angiogenic activities of extracted white pith may be through multiple steps of the angiogenesis pathway. |
