Targeting Apoptotic Pathway of Cancer Cells with Phytochemicals and Plant-Based Nanomaterials

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Oncology
• Nanomedicine

Background:

• Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is crucial for maintaining cellular balance and eliminating abnormal cells.
• Dysregulation of apoptosis contributes to cancer development, promoting cell survival, mutation accumulation, and tumor progression.
• Targeting apoptotic pathways is a key strategy in cancer therapy, but traditional drugs face challenges with off-target effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular pathways governing programmed cell death (PCD).
• To explore the potential of phytochemicals (PCs) as anticancer agents targeting PCD.
• To discuss the advancements in green-synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) for enhanced plant-based cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Review of fundamental molecular mechanisms of apoptosis (mitochondrial and death receptor pathways).
• Analysis of existing literature on phytochemicals' efficacy in various cancer cell lines.
• Examination of the role and synthesis of plant-based nanoparticles in cancer treatment.

Main Results:

• Phytochemicals demonstrate individual and synergistic anticancer effects by influencing PCD pathways.
• Green-synthesized plant-based nanoparticles offer a novel platform for targeted drug delivery and enhanced cancer treatment.
• Understanding PCD networks is essential for developing effective and less toxic cancer therapies.

Conclusions:

• Phytochemicals and plant-based nanoparticles represent promising therapeutic avenues for cancer treatment by targeting programmed cell death.
• Further research into these natural compounds and nanomaterials can lead to more effective and safer cancer therapies.
• Modulating the PCD network is a critical approach for overcoming cancer progression and drug resistance.