Targeting FGL2, a molecular drug target for glioblastoma, with natural compounds through virtual screening method

Background: Fibroleukin-2 protein (FGL2) causes redevelopment of brain tumors. Inhibition of these proteins has shown to improve glioblastoma prognosis and treatment efficacy. Aim: The current study gathered recently exploited natural compounds that suppress glioblastoma proliferation in vitro, tested against FGL2 protein. Method: Twenty-five compounds were explored through a virtual screening platform. Results: Three natural compounds (betanine, hesperetin and ovatodiolide) hit the active site of FGL2. Furthermore, the influence of these compounds was also assessed using in silico gene expression, and ADMET tools showed downregulation of some genes, which caused rapid tumor development while possessing a moderate acute toxicity and pharmacokinetic profile. Conclusion: Our study presents three compounds that are good candidates for evaluation in FGL2 mutated glioblastoma animal models.