Bioactive compounds from Cudrania tricuspidata: A natural anticancer source

Area of Science:

• Natural Product Chemistry
• Pharmacology
• Oncology

Background:

• Tumors pose a significant global health threat, driving research into novel therapeutic agents.
• Natural products are a rich source of potential anticancer compounds.
• Cudrania tricuspidata (C. tricuspidata) is recognized for its diverse phytochemicals, including flavonoids and xanthones with known bioactivities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review and analyze the antitumor compounds derived from C. tricuspidata.
• To identify key structural features contributing to anticancer activity.
• To evaluate the potential of C. tricuspidata as a source for cancer prevention and therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating C. tricuspidata and its isolated compounds.
• Analysis of reported antitumor activities against various cancer cell lines and models.
• Evaluation of structure-activity relationships, focusing on specific chemical moieties.

Main Results:

• 78 flavonoids and xanthones from C. tricuspidata exhibit significant antitumor potential.
• Preylation of specific groups on flavonoids and xanthones is crucial for enhanced anticancer activity.
• C. tricuspidata fruits are identified as a superior and sustainable source of antitumor compounds, particularly isoflavones, compared to roots and barks.

Conclusions:

• C. tricuspidata demonstrates considerable promise for anticancer drug development.
• Structural modification, particularly preylation, offers a viable strategy for optimizing antitumor efficacy.
• Further in-depth in vitro and in vivo research is necessary to elucidate molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets for C. tricuspidata-derived compounds.