Function of selected natural antidiabetic compounds with potential against cancer via modulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Oncology
• Metabolic Disorders Research

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health concern with increasing incidence and severe complications, including cancer.
• Cancer is a leading cause of death, with specific types frequently observed in diabetic patients.
• The Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is implicated in both diabetes and cancer pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of medicinal plants and their compounds in cancer therapy.
• To identify antidiabetic compounds that can modulate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway for anticancer effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of medicinal plants with antidiabetic activities.
• Identification of bioactive compounds responsible for antidiabetic effects.
• Analysis of compounds targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway for potential anticancer activity.

Main Results:

• Highlighted 717 medicinal plants with antidiabetic activities and 357 bioactive compounds.
• Identified 43 plant compounds with potential antidiabetic and anticancer activities.
• These compounds modulate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR cascade.

Conclusions:

• Medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites with antidiabetic properties represent a promising avenue for cancer therapy.
• Repurposing antidiabetic medicinal plants and compounds could offer a novel strategy for cancer treatment by targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.