Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 30, 2026
MR Molecular Imaging of Prostate Cancer with a Small Molecular CLT1 Peptide Targeted Contrast Agent
Published on: September 3, 2013
Peptides as Potential Anticancer Agents
Shams Aaghaz1, Vivek Gohel2, Ahmed Kamal3
1Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), S.A.S Nagar, Mohali, India.
Abstract:
Cancer consists of heterogeneous multiple cell subpopulation which at a later stage develop resistant phenotypes, which include resistance to pro-apoptotic stimuli and/or cytotoxic resistance to anticancer compounds. The property of cancerous cells to affect almost any part of the body categorizes cancer to many anatomic and molecular subtypes, each requiring a particular therapeutic intervention. As several modalities are hindered in a variety of cancers and as the cancer cells accrue varied types of oncogenic mutations during their progression the most likely benefit will be obtained by a combination of therapeutic agents that might address the diverse hallmarks of cancer. Natural compounds are the backbone of cancer therapeutics owing to their property of affecting the DNA impairment and restoration mechanisms and also the gene expression modulated via several epigenetic molecular mechanisms. Bioactive peptides isolated from flora and fauna have transformed the arena of antitumour therapy and prompt progress in preclinical studies is promising. The difficulties in creating ACP rest in improving its delivery to the tumour site and it also must maintain a low toxicity profile. The substantial production costs, low selectivity and proteolytic stability of some ACP are some of the factors hindering the progress of peptide drug development. Recently, several publications have tried to edify the field with the idea of using peptides as adjuvants with established drugs for antineoplastic use. This review focuses on peptides from natural sources that precisely target tumour cells and subsequently serve as anticancer agents that are less toxic to normal tissues.
Insights
Natural bioactive peptides show promise as anticancer agents by targeting tumor cells. Further research is needed to overcome challenges in delivery, toxicity, and production for effective cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cancer is a complex disease with heterogeneous cell subpopulations developing resistance to therapies.
- Diverse cancer subtypes necessitate tailored therapeutic interventions, often requiring combination treatments.
- Natural compounds, particularly bioactive peptides, offer a promising avenue for anticancer drug development due to their mechanisms of action.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review natural peptides that specifically target tumor cells for anticancer therapy.
- To highlight the potential of these peptides as less toxic alternatives to conventional treatments.
- To discuss challenges and recent advancements in the development of anticancer peptides (ACPs).
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on natural bioactive peptides with anticancer properties.
- Analysis of peptide mechanisms targeting tumor cells and their resistance phenotypes.
- Evaluation of challenges in anticancer peptide (ACP) development, including delivery, toxicity, and stability.
Main Results:
- Bioactive peptides from natural sources demonstrate potential in targeting tumor cells and overcoming resistance.
- Peptides can modulate DNA repair, gene expression, and epigenetic mechanisms relevant to cancer.
- Recent research explores peptides as adjuvants to established anticancer drugs.
Conclusions:
- Natural peptides represent a promising class of anticancer agents with improved tumor-specific targeting and reduced toxicity.
- Overcoming challenges in delivery, cost, selectivity, and stability is crucial for advancing peptide-based cancer therapeutics.
- Further preclinical and clinical studies are warranted to fully realize the therapeutic potential of these natural compounds.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
02:43Peptide Bonds
00:52Potential Energy
Chemical bonds that form attractive forces between atoms also contain potential energy, called chemical energy. When a chemical reaction...
01:09Potential Energy
01:29Subviral Agents
03:02Standard Electrode Potentials
02:58Cell Potential and Free Energy
Thermodynamics is the branch of physics dealing with the relationship between heat and other forms of energy. In an electrochemical cell, chemical energy is converted into electrical energy.
Thus, a link can be predicted between cell potential, free energy change, and the equilibrium constant for the reaction. Cell potential can also be measured as the oxidant or the reducing strength, and similar acid-base strength measures are reflected in equilibrium...