Unveiling the multitarget anticancer potential of Cochlospermum religiosum: phytochemical profiling, molecular docking, and in vitro/in vivo validation

Background: Cochlospermum religiosum (CR) is a traditionally valued medicinal plant, but its anticancer constituents and mechanisms remain poorly understood. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the anticancer potential of CR by integrating phytochemical profiling, molecular docking, and in vitro/in vivo evaluations. Methods: GC–MS and LC–MS analyses were performed to identify bioactive compounds in CR. Molecular docking was carried out against key cancer targets (CDK-2, CDK-6, IGF-1R, Bcl-2, and VEGFR-2). In vitro cytotoxicity was tested on MCF-7 (breast) and HT29 (colon) cancer cell lines, and in vivo efficacy was evaluated in an Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) mouse model. Haematological and hepatic parameters were also assessed. Results: Several bioactive compounds were identified, including euphornin (reported for the first time in CR), lupeol, and stigmasterol, all with known anticancer activity. Docking studies suggested strong multitarget inhibitory potential. CR extract showed selective cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and HT29 cells with IC₅₀ values of ~ 33–42 µg/mL, while sparing normal cells. In the EAC mouse model, a 400 mg/kg dose of CR significantly reduced tumor burden, improved survival, and restored haematological (↑hemoglobin, ↑lymphocytes) and hepatic (↓SGOT, ↓SGPT, ↓bilirubin) parameters. Conclusions: Cochlospermum religiosum exhibits promising multitarget anticancer potential, coupled with immunomodulatory and hepatoprotective effects. These findings provide a strong foundation for further mechanistic and clinical investigations.