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Updated: Dec 9, 2025
Zebrafish Model of Neuroblastoma Metastasis
Published on: March 14, 2021
Resveratrol in the treatment of neuroblastoma: a review
Kamil Leis1, Aleksandra Baska1, Weronika Bereźnicka1
1Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 85-094Bydgoszcz, Poland.
Abstract:
Resveratrol, polyphenol naturally occurring in grapes or nuts, has anti-cancer properties in the treatment of neuroblastoma - the most common childhood solid tumor. It affects cancer cells by increasing apoptosis, inducing cell necrosis and reducing tumor mass. Mechanism of action - (1) converting procaspases, mainly procaspases three and nine into active forms - caspases, (2) blocking kinases, and also (3) leading the cell to the S-cell cycle, where it is most effective while increasing the concentration of cyclin E and lowering the concentration of p21 protein. In vitro, as well as, rodent animal models studies are available and show promising results. Therapeutic doses, currently within 10-100 μmol/L, are also being tested, as well as other forms of resveratrol, such as its trans-4,4'-dihydroxystilbene analog and polyphenol lipoconjugates. In our review, we presented the known molecular mechanisms of polyphenol anti-tumor activity against neuroblastoma and discussed the studies confirming its effectiveness.
Insights
Resveratrol, a natural polyphenol, shows anti-cancer effects against neuroblastoma by increasing cancer cell death and reducing tumor size. Studies confirm its effectiveness and explore optimal therapeutic doses and novel formulations.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Neuroblastoma is the most common childhood solid tumor.
- Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes and nuts, exhibits potential anti-cancer properties.
- Understanding resveratrol's mechanisms against neuroblastoma is crucial for therapeutic development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular mechanisms of resveratrol's anti-tumor activity against neuroblastoma.
- To discuss studies validating resveratrol's effectiveness in neuroblastoma treatment.
- To explore potential therapeutic applications and novel resveratrol formulations.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies investigating resveratrol's effects on neuroblastoma cells.
- Rodent animal models assessing resveratrol's efficacy and safety.
- Analysis of molecular pathways, including apoptosis, necrosis, and cell cycle regulation.
Main Results:
- Resveratrol induces apoptosis and necrosis in neuroblastoma cells.
- It reduces tumor mass and inhibits cancer cell proliferation.
- Molecular targets include caspase activation, kinase inhibition, and cell cycle modulation (S-phase).
Conclusions:
- Resveratrol demonstrates significant anti-neuroblastoma activity through multiple molecular pathways.
- Promising results from in vitro and animal studies support its therapeutic potential.
- Further research into optimal dosing and novel delivery forms, like analogs and lipoconjugates, is warranted.
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