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Anticancer activity of flavonoids accompanied by redox state modulation and the potential for a chemotherapeutic

Yongkyu Lee1, Jehyung Lee2, Changbaek Lim3

  • 1Foood and Nutrition, College of Science and Engineering, Dongseo University, Jurae-ro 47, Sasang-Gu, Busan, 47011 Korea.

Food Science and Biotechnology
|April 19, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Flavonoids exhibit anticancer effects by modulating cellular redox state through both antioxidant and prooxidant activities. This study analyzes their mechanisms and potential as cancer therapeutics.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Flavonoids possess anticancer properties, but their redox-modulating mechanisms are underexplored.
  • Their anticancer effects stem from both ROS-scavenging (antioxidant) and ROS-generating (prooxidant) activities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively analyze how flavonoids modulate the redox state in cancer cells.
  • To elucidate the anticancer mechanisms of specific flavonoids, focusing on redox potential.
  • To review clinical applications and bioavailability for developing flavonoid-based therapies.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro studies on cancer cell lines.
  • Animal models to assess anticancer effects.
  • Literature review of clinical applications and bioavailability of flavonoids.

Main Results:

  • Flavonoids like quercetin, genistein, and EGCG modulate cellular redox balance.
  • Both antioxidant and prooxidant actions contribute to flavonoid anticancer activity.
  • Specific flavonoids show promise in preclinical cancer models.

Conclusions:

  • Flavonoids are potent modulators of cancer cell redox state.
  • Targeting redox potential with flavonoids offers a promising chemotherapeutic strategy.
  • Further research into flavonoid bioavailability and clinical efficacy is warranted.
Keywords:
AnticancerChemotherapeutic strategyFlavonoidRedox state modulation

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