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Phytochemicals for breast cancer prevention by targeting aromatase

Lynn S Adams1, Shiuan Chen

  • 1Department of Surgical Research, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd. Duarte, CA, USA.

Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark Edition)
|March 11, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Natural compounds show promise for inhibiting aromatase, the enzyme crucial for estrogen production in hormone-responsive breast cancers. This review explores plant extracts and phytochemicals for potential chemopreventive and therapeutic applications.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Aromatase (cytochrome P450 19, CYP19) is the key enzyme in estrogen biosynthesis.
  • Aromatase inhibition is a primary treatment for hormone-dependent breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
  • Natural compounds are extensively studied for diverse biological activities, including anti-tumor effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review natural compounds, including whole food extracts and phytochemicals, with aromatase inhibitory activity.
  • To discuss the potential of these natural compounds for cancer chemoprevention and drug development.
  • To analyze reported aromatase inhibition, kinetic data, and structure-activity relationships.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating aromatase inhibition by natural compounds.
  • Analysis of phytochemical classes and whole food extracts with reported activity.
  • Examination of kinetic data and structural features influencing enzyme-inhibitor interactions.

Main Results:

  • Numerous plant extracts and phytochemicals exhibit aromatase inhibitory properties.
  • Specific classes of phytochemicals demonstrate significant potential for aromatase inhibition.
  • Structure-activity relationships are being elucidated to optimize inhibitory potential.

Conclusions:

  • Natural compounds offer a promising avenue for developing novel aromatase inhibitors.
  • Further research into phytochemicals could lead to new strategies for breast cancer prevention and treatment.
  • Understanding structure-activity relationships is crucial for designing effective natural aromatase inhibitors.

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