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Published on: November 1, 2017
Selected Flavonoids to Target Melanoma: A Perspective in Nanoengineering Delivery Systems
Tiago E Coutinho1,2, Eliana B Souto3,4, Amélia M Silva1,2
1Center for Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB-UTAD), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal.
Abstract:
Melanoma is a complex type of cancer that depends on several metabolic factors, while the currently used therapies are not always effective and have unwanted side effects. In this review, the main factors involved in the etiology of cutaneous carcinoma are highlighted, together with the main genes and proteins that regulate cancer invasion and metastization. The role of five selected flavonoids, namely, apigenin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, kaempferol, naringenin, and silybin, in the modulating receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) and Wnt pathways is reported with their relevance in the future design of drugs to mitigate and/or treat melanoma. However, as phenolic compounds have some difficulties in reaching the target site, the encapsulation of these compounds in nanoparticles is a promising strategy to promote improved physicochemical stabilization of the bioactives and achieve greater bioavailability. Scientific evidence is given about the beneficial effects of loading these flavonoids into selected nanoparticles for further exploitation in the treatment of melanoma.
Insights
This review explores how flavonoids can target melanoma by modulating key cancer pathways. Encapsulating these compounds in nanoparticles enhances their effectiveness for future melanoma treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Melanoma is a complex cancer influenced by metabolic factors, with current therapies showing limitations and side effects.
- Understanding the genetic and protein regulators of melanoma invasion and metastasis is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of five specific flavonoids in modulating receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) and Wnt pathways in melanoma.
- To highlight the potential of nanoparticle-encapsulated flavonoids for improved melanoma treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on the molecular mechanisms of melanoma etiology.
- Analysis of the impact of apigenin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, kaempferol, naringenin, and silybin on RTK and Wnt signaling pathways.
- Evaluation of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for enhancing flavonoid bioavailability.
Main Results:
- Selected flavonoids demonstrate potential in modulating critical pathways (RTK and Wnt) involved in melanoma progression.
- Nanoparticle encapsulation significantly improves the physicochemical stability and bioavailability of these phenolic compounds.
- Evidence suggests that loaded nanoparticles can enhance the therapeutic efficacy of flavonoids against melanoma.
Conclusions:
- Flavonoids represent a promising class of compounds for melanoma treatment, particularly when delivered via nanoparticle systems.
- Targeted delivery using nanoparticles overcomes bioavailability challenges, paving the way for novel melanoma therapeutic strategies.
- Further research into flavonoid-loaded nanoparticles could lead to advanced melanoma mitigation and treatment options.
