Advancements in the Research of for the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal cancer, characterized by its high incidence, concealed early symptoms, and poor prognosis at advanced stages, ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. (AM) refers to the dried roots of (Fisch.) Bge. var. (Bge.) Hsiao and (Fisch.) Bge. In the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is believed to have the functions of tonifying qi and lifting yang, as well as generating body fluids and nourishing blood. It can effectively treat cancer caused by the deficiency of vital energy and susceptibility to external diseases. Modern research has confirmed that the active components of AM, including polysaccharides, flavonoids (formononetin and calycosin), saponins (Astragaloside I and Astragaloside III), and nanovesicles, are effective in the treatment of colorectal cancer. The mechanisms mainly involve inducing apoptosis, inhibiting tumor angiogenesis and the metastasis of cancer cells, regulating the cell cycle and tumor microenvironment, and reversing drug resistance. Moreover, it offers a synergistic enhancement when used in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, or surgical treatment. AM also has great potential in treating colorectal cancer when combined with other herbs. This review summarizes the relevant research findings on the treatment of colorectal cancer with AM, as well as its main pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms, aiming to provide guidance for the development of new drugs, and offer direction for the conduct of more related research and promoting the development and application of AM.