Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 15, 2025
Utilizing 18F-FDG PET/CT Imaging and Quantitative Histology to Measure Dynamic Changes in the Glucose Metabolism in Mouse Models of Lung Cancer
Published on: July 21, 2018
Using Natural Compounds to Target KRAS Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Mahruba Sultana Niloy1, Md Salman Shakil2, Md Meharab Hassan Alif1
1Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Abstract:
Approximately 85% of all lungs cancer cases are classified as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS) viral oncogene homolog mutations frequently occur in NSCLC patients resulting in a decreased overall survival. Additionally, currently used chemotherapeutic drugs lack selectivity,and patients experience side effects. Therefore, potent therapeutic agents are urgently needed for these patients. Plant- based compounds could be a potential option to treat KRAS-mutated NSCLC. These compounds are reported to be effective against the KRAS-linked up-stream and downstream signaling pathways that are directly or indirectly linked with cell proliferation, division, and apoptosis. Additionally, plant phytochemicals also suppressed different cell cycle phases of KRAS-mutant NSCLC cells. Furthermore, phytochemicals have a wider therapeutic index compared to chemotherapeutic drugs. Therefore, phytochemicals could benefit NSCLC patients as sole agents or as a combination therapy with approved chemotherapies. The current review aims to summarize the potential benefit of natural compounds in KRAS-mutant NSCLC.
Insights
Natural compounds show promise for treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with KRAS mutations. These plant-based phytochemicals target cancer pathways and offer a safer alternative to chemotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Natural Product Chemistry
Background:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for ~85% of lung cancer cases.
- KRAS mutations in NSCLC patients correlate with reduced survival and limited treatment options.
- Current chemotherapy drugs for NSCLC exhibit poor selectivity and significant side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the therapeutic potential of plant-derived compounds for KRAS-mutated NSCLC.
- To explore the efficacy of phytochemicals in targeting KRAS-linked signaling pathways.
- To assess the advantages of natural compounds over conventional chemotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on phytochemicals and KRAS-mutated NSCLC.
- Analysis of research on plant compounds affecting cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle.
- Evaluation of the safety and therapeutic index of natural compounds.
Main Results:
- Plant-based compounds effectively modulate KRAS-linked upstream and downstream signaling pathways.
- Phytochemicals demonstrate the ability to suppress cell cycle progression in KRAS-mutant NSCLC cells.
- Natural compounds possess a broader therapeutic index compared to existing chemotherapeutic agents.
Conclusions:
- Phytochemicals represent a promising therapeutic strategy for KRAS-mutated NSCLC.
- Natural compounds can be utilized as standalone treatments or in combination with chemotherapy.
- Further research into plant-based agents could lead to improved outcomes for NSCLC patients.
Related Concept Videos
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
02:50Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...