Compounds from diverse natural origin against triple-negative breast cancer: A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Natural Product Chemistry

Background:

• Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive, heterogeneous disease lacking estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and HER2 expression.
• TNBC tumorigenesis involves mutations in tumor suppressor genes, BRCA mutations, and dysregulated cell signaling pathways.
• Current chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments for TNBC have limited response rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of phytochemicals derived from natural compounds as inhibitors of triple-negative breast cancer.
• To explore the mechanisms by which natural compounds exert antitumor effects against TNBC.
• To highlight the development of novel and efficient antitumor therapies based on natural products.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating natural compounds and their effects on TNBC.
• Analysis of secondary metabolites (alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids) from natural products.
• Examination of cell signaling pathways and molecular targets involved in TNBC inhibition by natural compounds.

Main Results:

• Phytochemicals demonstrate significant inhibition of TNBC growth and proliferation.
• Natural compounds offer advantages such as lower toxicity and fewer side effects compared to conventional treatments.
• Specific secondary metabolites show potent antitumor activity, providing insights into inhibitory mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• Natural compounds and their phytochemical constituents represent promising therapeutic agents for TNBC.
• Further research into these natural substances can lead to the development of novel, effective, and safer anticancer strategies.
• Medicinal herbs and naturally occurring compounds offer a valuable resource for future TNBC treatment development.