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Natural compounds with aromatase inhibitory activity: an update
Marcy J Balunas1, A Douglas Kinghorn
1Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT 06269, USA. marcy.balunas@uconn.edu
Planta Medica
|July 17, 2010
Summary
Researchers are exploring natural compounds as novel aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer treatment. These compounds offer a promising alternative to synthetic drugs, potentially reducing side effects and targeting specific cancer promoters.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Current synthetic aromatase inhibitors are used for hormone-receptor positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
- These treatments can cause adverse side effects, necessitating the search for alternatives.
- Aromatase inhibitors targeting breast-specific promoters (I.3 and II) are of particular interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent investigations on natural compounds as aromatase inhibitors.
- To evaluate natural compounds for promoter-specific aromatase inhibition.
- To assess natural compounds as potential aromatase inducers.
Main Methods:
- Review of noncellular, cellular, and in vivo studies published in the last two years.
- Analysis of studies focusing on promoter-specific aromatase inhibition.
- Examination of research on natural compounds as aromatase inducers.
Main Results:
- Numerous natural compounds have demonstrated aromatase inhibitory activity.
- Evidence suggests potential for promoter-specific activity of natural compounds.
- Some natural compounds may also act as aromatase inducers.
Conclusions:
- Natural compounds represent a promising area for developing new aromatase inhibitors.
- Further research into promoter-specific natural compounds could lead to more targeted breast cancer therapies.
- Natural compounds may offer a safer alternative to existing synthetic treatments.
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