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Published on: March 6, 2018
Phytochemicals With Anti 5-alpha-reductase Activity: A Prospective For Prostate Cancer Treatment
Aziemah Azizi1, Nuramalina H Mumin1, Naeem Shafqat1
1PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong, BE1410, Brunei.
Abstract:
Prostate cancer (CaP) is one of the leading causes of death in men worldwide. Much attention has been given on its prevention and treatment strategies, including targeting the regulation of 5-alpha-Reductase (5αR) enzyme activity, aimed to limit the progression of CaP by inhibiting the conversion of potent androgen dihydrotestosterone from testosterone that is thought to play a role in pathogenesis of CaP, by using the 5-alpha-Reductase inhibitors (5αRis) such as finasteride and dutasteride. However, 5αRis are reported to exhibit numerous adverse side effects, for instance erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction and loss of libido. This has led to a surge of interest on plant-derived alternatives that might offer favourable side effects and less toxic profiles. Phytochemicals from plants are shown to exhibit numerous medicinal properties in various studies targeting many major illnesses including CaP. Therefore, in this review, we aim to discuss the use of phytochemicals namely phytosterols, polyphenols and fatty acids, found in various plants with proven anti-CaP properties, as an alternative herbal CaP medicines as well as to outline their inhibitory activities on 5αRs isozymes based on their structural similarities with current 5αRis as part of CaP treatment approaches.
Insights
This review explores plant-derived phytochemicals as safer alternatives to 5-alpha-Reductase inhibitors for prostate cancer (CaP) treatment. These natural compounds show promise in inhibiting 5-alpha-Reductase (5αR) enzymes with fewer side effects.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Natural Products Chemistry
Background:
- Prostate cancer (CaP) is a significant global health concern for men.
- Current treatments targeting 5-alpha-Reductase (5αR) enzymes, like finasteride, have adverse side effects.
- Plant-derived compounds are being investigated as potentially safer alternatives for CaP management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review phytochemicals (phytosterols, polyphenols, fatty acids) with anti-CaP properties.
- To discuss their potential as herbal alternatives to conventional 5αR inhibitors.
- To outline their 5αR inhibitory activities based on structural similarities to existing drugs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on plant-derived compounds and prostate cancer.
- Analysis of phytochemical structures for potential 5αR inhibition.
- Comparison of plant-derived compounds with existing 5αR inhibitors (5αRis).
Main Results:
- Phytochemicals like phytosterols, polyphenols, and fatty acids show anti-CaP properties.
- These compounds may inhibit 5αR isozymes, similar to synthetic 5αRis.
- Plant-derived alternatives may offer a more favorable side effect profile.
Conclusions:
- Phytochemicals represent a promising avenue for developing novel, safer prostate cancer therapies.
- Further research into their 5αR inhibitory mechanisms and clinical efficacy is warranted.
- Herbal medicine incorporating these phytochemicals could complement existing CaP treatment strategies.
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