Molecular Targets of Natural Compounds with Anti-Cancer Properties
Małgorzata Kubczak1,2, Aleksandra Szustka2, Małgorzata Rogalińska2
1Department of General Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-237 Łódź, Poland.
Abstract:
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in humans. Despite rapid developments in diagnostic methods and therapies, metastasis and resistance to administrated drugs are the main obstacles to successful treatment. Therefore, the main challenge should be the diagnosis and design of optimal therapeutic strategies for patients to increase their chances of responding positively to treatment and increase their life expectancy. In many types of cancer, a deregulation of multiple pathways has been found. This includes disturbances in cellular metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, angiogenesis, or epigenetic modifications. Additionally, signals received from the microenvironment may significantly contribute to cancer development. Chemical agents obtained from natural sources seem to be very attractive alternatives to synthetic compounds. They can exhibit similar anti-cancer potential, usually with reduced side effects. It was reported that natural compounds obtained from fruits and vegetables, e.g., polyphenols, flavonoids, stilbenes, carotenoids and acetogenins, might be effective against cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Several published results indicate the activity of natural compounds on protein expression by its influence on transcription factors. They could also be involved in alterations in cellular response, cell signaling and epigenetic modifications. Such natural components could be used in our diet for anti-cancer protection. In this review, the activities of natural compounds, including anti-cancer properties, are described. The influence of natural agents on cancer cell metabolism, proliferation, signal transduction and epigenetic modifications is highlighted.
Insights
Natural compounds from fruits and vegetables show promise as anti-cancer agents. These dietary components can influence cancer cell metabolism, proliferation, and epigenetic modifications, offering potential for improved cancer protection.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading cause of death, with metastasis and drug resistance posing significant treatment challenges.
- Cancer development involves deregulation of cellular pathways, including metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and epigenetics, influenced by the tumor microenvironment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anti-cancer properties of natural compounds.
- To highlight the influence of natural agents on cancer cell metabolism, proliferation, signal transduction, and epigenetic modifications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published research on natural compounds and their anti-cancer activities.
- Analysis of studies investigating the effects of natural compounds on cancer cell pathways and molecular mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Natural compounds, particularly polyphenols, flavonoids, stilbenes, carotenoids, and acetogenins from fruits and vegetables, exhibit anti-cancer potential in vitro and in vivo.
- Natural compounds can modulate protein expression by affecting transcription factors and influence cellular responses, signaling, and epigenetic modifications.
Conclusions:
- Natural compounds represent attractive alternatives to synthetic drugs, potentially offering similar anti-cancer efficacy with fewer side effects.
- Dietary intake of natural compounds may contribute to anti-cancer protection by influencing key cancer-related cellular processes.
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