The attempt is concerned with investigation of thechemopreventive potential and antilipidperoxidative effects of ethanolic leaf extract of mulberry, Morus alba (L) (TpEt) on 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)- induced buccal pouch carcinoma in Syrian hamster, Mesocricetusauratus (L). Oral squamous cell carcinoma was developed in the buccal pouch of Syrian golden hamsters, by painting with 0.5% DMBA in liquid paraffin, thrice a week, for 14 weeks. The tumor incidence, volume and burden were determined. Oral administration ofTpEt at a dose of 300 mg/kg, body weight, to DMBA (on alternate days for 14 weeks)- painted animals significantly prevented the incidence, volume and burden of the tumor. TpEt showed potent antilipidperoxidative effect, as well as enhanced the antioxidant status in DMBApainted animals. TpEt has potent chemopreventive efficacy and significant antilipidperoxidative effect, in DMBA-induced oral carcinogenesis. The active principle of mulberry leaf may have the abilities of induction of apoptosis, which involve disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, release of cytochrome C and activation of caspase. With it’s bioactive compounds, mulberry, Morus alba (L) may open a new avenue in prevention and treatment of cancer.
