Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Beta-lapachone is a naturally occurring naphthoquinone compound derived from the lapacho tree (Tabebuia avellanedae). Its potential use against leukemia is primarily based on preclinical scientific studies rather than traditional medicine. Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that beta-lapachone exhibits cytotoxic effects against various leukemia cell lines, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Mechanistically, beta-lapachone induces cell death primarily via reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, activation of NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and disruption of cellular redox homeostasis, leading to apoptosis or programmed necrosis in susceptible leukemia cells.

Despite promising laboratory data, there is currently no robust clinical evidence to support the use of beta-lapachone for leukemia patients. To date, its use in humans is limited to early-phase clinical studies for other cancer types, and no major clinical trials have established its safety or efficacy in leukemia. The compound is not part of standard leukemia treatment protocols, and its use remains investigational. Therefore, while there is a scientific rationale and preclinical evidence for its antileukemic activity, the overall strength of evidence is low (rated 2/5), pending further research and clinical validation.

More about Beta-lapachone
More about Leukemia

Other ingredients used for Leukemia

Other health conditions supported by Beta-lapachone

Products containing Beta-lapachone