Cell viability – Ashwagandha extract + doxorubicin combination

The term Cell viability – Ashwagandha extract + doxorubicin combination does not refer to a discrete molecular target but rather to an experimental condition or study outcome involving a drug-herb interaction. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a traditional medicinal herb containing withanolides that exhibit anti-cancer and adaptogenic properties by targeting pathways such as NF-kB and vimentin (PubMed: 24046237). Doxorubicin is a potent anthracycline chemotherapy agent that inhibits topoisomerase II and causes DNA damage (PubMed: 15591231). Research into this combination typically focuses on whether Ashwagandha can enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to doxorubicin or protect healthy tissues, particularly the heart, from doxorubicin-induced toxicity (PubMed: 30634430). Because this entry describes a phenotypic measurement of a multi-component interaction, it is classified as an incorrect target designation for drug discovery purposes. It represents a pharmacological assessment of synergy and safety rather than a single therapeutic protein or receptor.

Other names

Ashwagandha and doxorubicin synergyWithania somnifera and doxorubicin co-treatmentChemosensitization by Ashwagandha

Doxorubicin exerts its effect by intercalating into DNA and inhibiting topoisomerase II, leading to double-strand breaks and cell death (PubMed: 15591231). Ashwagandha extract, particularly its bioactive component withaferin A, induces apoptosis and inhibits tumor growth by modulating the NF-kB pathway and targeting vimentin (PubMed: 24046237). The combination is often studied for synergistic cytotoxic effects in cancer cells or for the potential of Ashwagandha to provide cardioprotection against doxorubicin-induced oxidative stress (PubMed: 30634430).