Abstract
The global healthcare challenge of cancer remains challenging, requiring innovative approaches to identify potential anticancer agents. The intriguing anti-tumor properties of hydatid cysts produced in their larval stage by Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus) have attracted the attention of many scientists in recent years. This review aimed to delve deeper into the in vivo anticancer effects of hydatid cyst-derived antigens and shed light on their mechanisms of action and therapeutic implications for various cancer types. Several bioactive molecules in E. granulosus antigens have shown significant anti-cancer activity in vivo. Several studies have shown that administering these antigens reduced tumor size while increasing overall survival in breast cancer models. The immune response against tumor cells in lung cancer murine models has also been enhanced by E. granulosus antigens, such as antigen B, leading to the regression of tumors and enhanced immunity. Colon cancer cells are sensitized to these antigens as indicated by in vivo studies, rendering standard chemotherapy more effective at inhibiting tumor growth. E. granulosus antigens also reduce tumor metastasis when applied to in vivo melanoma models. E. granulosus antigens have demonstrated in vivo efficacy as a potential anticancer agent, underscoring their potential as valuable therapeutic agents. There is still much to be discovered about the exact mechanisms of these antigens and their clinical applicability. However, the impressive results observed across a wide range of cancer types underscore the significance of further research into the antigens to overcome cancer in vivo. In conclusion, animal model studies reveal the promising potential of E. granulosus antigens, particularly hydatid cyst fluid, in inhibiting tumor growth in colon, breast, melanoma, and lung cancers through immune-mediated mechanisms and apoptosis induction. These findings open up new avenues for cancer therapy and immunotherapy research, emphasizing the role of parasite antigens in combatting various cancer types.