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Published on: October 28, 2019
Phytochemicals as potent modulators of autophagy for cancer therapy
Mohammad Amin Moosavi1, Atousa Haghi2, Marveh Rahmati3
1Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, P.O Box:14965/161, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:
The dysregulation of autophagy is involved in the pathogenesis of a broad range of diseases, and accordingly universal research efforts have focused on exploring novel compounds with autophagy-modulating properties. While a number of synthetic autophagy modulators have been identified as promising cancer therapy candidates, autophagy-modulating phytochemicals have also attracted attention as potential treatments with minimal side effects. In this review, we firstly highlight the importance of autophagy and its relevance in the pathogenesis and treatment of cancer. Subsequently, we present the data on common phytochemicals and their mechanism of action as autophagy modulators. Finally, we discuss the challenges associated with harnessing the autophagic potential of phytochemicals for cancer therapy.
Insights
Autophagy, a cellular process, is key in disease, including cancer. This review explores natural compounds called phytochemicals that can modulate autophagy for potential cancer therapies with fewer side effects.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Autophagy dysregulation is implicated in numerous diseases, driving research into autophagy-modulating compounds.
- Synthetic autophagy modulators show promise in cancer therapy, but phytochemicals are gaining attention for their potential therapeutic benefits and reduced side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of autophagy in cancer pathogenesis and treatment.
- To present data on phytochemicals as autophagy modulators and their mechanisms of action.
- To discuss challenges in utilizing phytochemicals for cancer therapy via autophagy modulation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles and research data.
- Analysis of common phytochemicals and their impact on autophagy.
- Discussion of current research and future directions in phytochemical-based autophagy modulation.
Main Results:
- Autophagy plays a critical role in both the development and treatment of cancer.
- Various phytochemicals demonstrate autophagy-modulating properties, offering potential therapeutic avenues.
- Challenges remain in effectively translating phytochemical autophagy modulation into clinical cancer treatments.
Conclusions:
- Autophagy is a significant target for cancer therapy.
- Phytochemicals represent a promising class of compounds for modulating autophagy in cancer treatment.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges and optimize the use of phytochemicals in cancer therapy.
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