Echinacea purpurea as a Cannabimimetic Agent in Cancer: A Systematic Review of Anti-Proliferative, Autophagic and Anti-Metastatic Mechanisms

Chiamaka Emelumba

Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation

College: Hennings College of Science Mathematics and Technology

Major: BS.BIO/CELL/MOLEC

Faculty Research Mentor: Rana Zeine

Abstract:

My project focuses on investigating how cannabinoids influence cancer progression through mechanisms beyond apoptosis. Specifically, I plan to examine their effects on anti-proliferative signaling, autophagy induction, and invasion/metastasis inhibition within a single cancer model. While many studies focus on cell death, emerging research suggests cannabinoids also modulate cellular stress pathways that can slow cell division, trigger autophagy, and reduce metastatic behavior. By studying these effects together, my project aims to understand how cannabinoids may act as modulators of tumor progression rather than just cytotoxic agents