Compositions and methods for cancer prevention and treatment derived from Inula britannica

Abstract

Compositions and methods for preventing and treating cancer are provided that comprise extracts of Inula britannica or compounds isolated therefrom.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A method for treating cancer by inducing Bcl-2 phosphorylation in an animal, the method comprising administering to the animal a composition comprising a sesquiterpene lactone in an amount sufficient to induce said phosphorylation to treat said cancer.  
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the composition consists essentially of 10-acetylbritannilactone.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the composition consists essentially of 1,6-O,O-diacetylbritannilactone.  
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said cancer is ovarian cancer.  
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said cancer is prostrate cancer.  
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said cancer is a breast cancer.  
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the composition is administered to the animal as part of a dietary supplement.  
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the composition is extracted from  Inula britannica.    
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the composition is extracted from  Inula britannica  floral parts.