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Cancer Protective Role of Selected Dietary Polyphenols via Modulating Keap1/Nrf2/ARE and Interconnected Signaling
Md Arman Islam1, Maisha Maliha Medha1, Akhlak Un Nahar1
1Pharmacy Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh.
Abstract:
The Kelch-like ECH associated protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response elements (ARE) signaling pathway is considered a master regulator of the cellular response against oxidative stress. Numerous studies have investigated the role of Keap1/Nrf2/ARE in the different stages of cancer development. A comprehensive literature search using the Google Scholar, PubMed and Science Direct databases was performed to retrieve information related to the cancer protective role of 21 selected dietary polyphenols via modulation of Keap1/Nrf2/ARE and interconnected signaling pathways/proteins (MAPK/ERK1/2, PI3K/Akt, PKD, JNKs, AMPK, NF-κB). Information on the anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects caused by the selected dietary polyphenols following Keap1/Nrf2/ARE modulation was also collected. The majority of the studies analyzed in this review demonstrated the cancer protective role of the selected polyphenols mostly in-vitro. Limited work was performed in-vivo and only one of the selected polyphenols was subjected to a clinical trial. It is hoped that this review will encourage further in-vivo studies to confirm the cancer protective role of methyleugenol, carnosol, and catechin, as well as further clinical trials to unambiguously establish whether the consumption of dietary polyphenols impacts on the incidence and progression of cancers in humans.
Insights
Dietary polyphenols may protect against cancer by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway. Further in vivo and clinical studies are needed to confirm these cancer-protective effects in humans.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- The Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway is crucial for cellular defense against oxidative stress and plays a role in cancer development.
- Dietary polyphenols are investigated for their potential cancer-protective properties.
Approach:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct.
- The review focused on 21 dietary polyphenols and their modulation of the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway and related signaling cascades.
- Information on anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects was also collected.
Key Points:
- Most studies indicate a cancer-protective role for selected polyphenols, primarily in vitro.
- The Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway, along with MAPK/ERK1/2, PI3K/Akt, PKD, JNKs, AMPK, and NF-κB, are key targets.
- Limited in vivo and clinical trial data exist for these polyphenols.
Conclusions:
- Further in vivo research is recommended for methyleugenol, carnosol, and catechin.
- Clinical trials are necessary to confirm the impact of dietary polyphenol consumption on human cancer incidence and progression.
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