Nature’s arsenal unleashed: <i>Senegalia modesta</i> derived thymol halts cancer progression by suppressing proangiogenic genes

Inhibiting angiogenesis with plant-derived bioactive compounds can inhibit tumour progression. Antiangiogenic potential of <i>Senegalia modesta</i> was analysed by preparing and analysing ethanolic extracts of <i>S.modesta</i> by GC-MS and HPLC to identify bioactive components. In-vivo blood vessel formation assays in mice and chorioallantoic membrane assays (CAM) in eggs were employed to assess the antiangiogenic effects. qPCR was performed to elucidate mRNA expression of proangiogenic genes in MDA-MB-231 cells after exposure to <i>S.modesta</i> and thymol. Molecular docking analysis highlighted the interaction of thymol with VEGF receptors. <i>S.modesta</i> treatment significantly delayed wound healing in mice compared to control group. GC-MS and HPLC analyses thymol as a bioactive compound in <i>S.modesta</i> extract. CAM assay indicated reduced angiogenesis in thymol-treated groups, further confirmed by downregulation of proangiogenic genes. Molecular docking of thymol with VEGFR1/VEGFR2 revealed strong binding affinity, suggesting thymol-mediated receptor blocking. Thymol exhibits antiangiogenic potential and may serve as a promising therapeutic agent against cancer.