Anti-cancer peptides: their current trends in the development of peptide-based therapy and anti-tumor drugs

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Conventional cancer therapies present significant limitations including severe side effects, high costs, and limited efficacy.
• Bioactive peptides are emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy due to their tumor-targeting capabilities and reduced toxicity to normal cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating the structural and functional aspects of anti-cancer peptides.
• To elucidate the mechanisms of action of bioactive peptides in inhibiting tumor cell proliferation.
• To highlight the therapeutic benefits and clinical importance of anti-cancer peptides in cancer treatment and prevention.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on natural sources of anti-cancer peptides.
• Analysis of peptide selectivity, penetration efficiency, and restructuring potential.
• Examination of the molecular mechanisms underlying peptide-mediated anti-cancer activity.

Main Results:

• Bioactive peptides demonstrate high selectivity and penetration efficiency, targeting tumor cells specifically.
• Peptides can be readily restructured for optimized therapeutic applications.
• While their benefits are recognized, the precise mechanisms of tumor cell proliferation inhibition require further clarification.

Conclusions:

• Anti-cancer peptides represent a valuable addition to the cancer therapeutic arsenal, offering a more targeted and less toxic approach.
• Further research into their mechanisms of action is crucial for enhancing cancer prevention and developing sustainable treatment models.
• The review underscores the importance of anti-cancer peptides in ongoing clinical studies for reducing cancer incidence and improving patient outcomes.