Antitumor activity of water extracts from Cordyceps militaris in NCI-H460 cell xenografted nude mice.

This experimental study investigated the antitumor effect of Cordyceps militaris in NCI-H406 cell transplanted nude mice. After feeding an aqueous solution of C. militaris extracts in NCI-H460 cell xenografted nude mice for 4 weeks, we measured the size of a tumor mass and calculated the inhibition rate. We also estimated survival time and calculated mean survival time and percent increase in lifespan. Results showed that the inhibition rate of water extract of the 150 mg/kg/day C. militaris-administered group was 94.73-75.08% and that of the 300 mg/kg/day C. militaris-administered group was 85.81-73.81%. The tumor weights and volumes decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Mean survival time of the 150 mg/kg/day C. militaris-administered group was extended to 19.43 +/- 2.44 days and 5.42% increased in lifespan (ILS) and that of the 300 mg/kg/day C. militaris-administered group was 21.86 +/- 3.53 days and 18.61% ILS. The relative liver weight was significantly increased in 300 mg/kg/day C. militaris-administered group, but there was no histopathological difference. In conclusion, C. militaris, shrunk tumors and increased mouse lifespan, suggesting that C. militaris was effective in treating tumors in nude mice. Copyright 2009 Korean Pharmacopuncture Institute. Published by .. All rights reserved.