pangolin scales

Pangolin scales are the keratinous coverings of pangolins, which are heavily trafficked mammals primarily due to demand for their use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In TCM, pangolin scales have been traditionally used to treat various diseases, including cancers and rheumatoid arthritis, and are believed to possess healing properties. Recent scientific investigations have explored the biological activities of pangolin scale extract (PSE). Studies have shown that PSE exhibits anti-cancer effects on malignant melanoma cells by inhibiting cell proliferation and migration, inducing cell cycle arrest, and promoting apoptosis through the p53 and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Furthermore, pangolin scales have been found to possess antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria, suggesting a role in innate immunity through specific proteins and metabolites involved in immune responses, neutrophil degranulation, and stress responses. Research into pangolin scales is often conducted with the aim of identifying active compounds that could be developed as alternative treatments, thereby supporting conservation efforts for this endangered species.

Other names

穿山甲