Plants as a Source of Anticancer Agents: From Bench to Bedside

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, with conventional therapies often lacking selectivity and causing significant side effects.
• Cancer hallmarks represent key biological capabilities acquired by cancer cells, and targeting these offers a promising therapeutic strategy.
• Plant-derived natural products offer diverse chemical structures and lower toxicity, making them attractive candidates for developing novel anticancer agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the anticancer activities of ten plant-derived natural products.
• To explore the potential of these natural products in targeting multiple cancer hallmarks.
• To assess the clinical applicability of these compounds in cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on plant-derived natural products with anticancer properties.
• Analysis of mechanisms of action, focusing on the targeting of cancer hallmarks.
• Evaluation of clinical data and applications of identified natural products.

Main Results:

• Ten plant-derived natural products were identified with significant anticancer activities.
• The majority of these products demonstrated the ability to target multiple cancer hallmarks.
• Several of these natural products have progressed to clinical applications, showing therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• Plant-derived natural products represent a valuable resource for developing effective anticancer therapies.
• Targeting multiple cancer hallmarks with these compounds offers a promising strategy to overcome therapeutic challenges.
• The findings support the use of plant-derived natural products in designing novel combination anticancer treatments for improved patient outcomes.