Esculetin unveiled: Decoding its anti-tumor potential through molecular mechanisms-A comprehensive review
Md Rezoan Hossain1, Fatema Tuj Zahra Shova2, Munni Akter3
1Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Rajshahi University, Rajshahi, Bangladesh.
Background:
The growing complexity of cancer has made it a significant concern in the medical community. Although cancer research has advanced, it is still challenging to create new effective medications due to the limitations and side effects of existing treatment strategies. These are enforcing the development of some alternative drugs from natural compounds with fewer drawbacks and side effects.
Aim:
Therefore, this review aims to provide up-to-date, crucial, and all-encompassing data on esculetin's anticancer activity, including all relevant molecular and cellular processes based on in vivo and in vitro investigations.
Results:
According to the literature review, esculetin is available in nature and is effective against 16 different types of cancer. The general mechanism shown by esculetin is modulating signaling cascades and its related pathways, like cell proliferation, cell growth, autophagy, apoptosis, necrosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, metastasis, invasion, and DNA damage. Nanoformulation of esculetin improves this natural product's efficacy by improving water solubility. Esculetin's synergistic effects with both natural substances and conventional treatments have been shown, and this method aids in reversing resistance mechanisms by modulating resistance-related proteins. In addition, it has fewer side effects on humans than other phytochemicals and standard drugs with some good pharmacokinetic features.
Conclusion:
Therefore, until standard chemotherapeutics are available in pharmaceutical markets, esculetin should be used as a therapeutic drug against various cancer types.
Insights
Esculetin, a natural compound, shows significant anticancer activity against 16 cancer types by modulating key cellular processes. Its nanoformulation and synergistic effects enhance efficacy and reduce side effects, positioning it as a promising cancer therapeutic.
Area of Science:
- Natural product chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Cancer complexity necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
- Existing treatments face limitations including side effects.
- Natural compounds offer alternative approaches with improved safety profiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review esculetin's anticancer properties.
- To detail its molecular and cellular mechanisms of action.
- To evaluate its potential as a cancer therapeutic.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of in vivo and in vitro studies on esculetin.
- Analysis of esculetin's effects on cancer hallmarks.
- Investigation of nanoformulation and synergistic strategies.
Main Results:
- Esculetin exhibits efficacy against 16 cancer types.
- It modulates critical pathways including proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis.
- Nanoformulation enhances solubility and efficacy; synergistic use reverses resistance.
Conclusions:
- Esculetin demonstrates broad-spectrum anticancer activity.
- It possesses favorable pharmacokinetic and safety profiles.
- Esculetin is a promising candidate for cancer therapy.
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