Andrographis paniculata Suppression of Cytokine Production and Stimulation of Cell-Mediated Immunity

Despite intense scrutiny, cancer remains a formidable disease with limited therapeutic options, especially in the context of metastatic disease (Fisher, 2005). Metastasis, formation of secondary tumors is a turning point in tumourogenesis and consists of complex series of parallel, yet intertwined events (Bogenrieder, 2003). Several molecules and signals in the host system especially in the tumor microevironment, which include, inflammatory cells, cytokines etc. forms critical mediators of neoplastic progression and metastasis (Schwertfeger et al., 2006). Cell mediated immune system is responsible for early detection and elimination of tumor cells. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), natural killer cell (NK cell), NKT cell, dendritic cells and macrophages are mainly involved in this process (Smyth et al., 2001). Although most tumors are immunogenic, the immunity they evoke is either too weak to reject a rapidly growing tumors or they suppress the host immune system (Old et al., 1962; Naor, 1979). In fact a state of persistent chronic inflammation associated with cancer may attenuate T cell function, which is essential for immunosurveillance and cancer cell destruction (Roung-Fa Wang, 2006). A healthy immune system is necessary for control of malignant disease (Whiteside, 2006). Hence, augmentation of host natural defence machinery becomes one of the effective