Natural products targeting autophagy and apoptosis in NSCLC: a novel therapeutic strategy
Peiyi Qin1,2, Qingchen Li3, Qi Zu2
1First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
Abstract:
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) being the predominant type. The roles of autophagy and apoptosis in NSCLC present a dual and intricate nature. Additionally, autophagy and apoptosis interconnect through diverse crosstalk molecules. Owing to their multitargeting nature, safety, and efficacy, natural products have emerged as principal sources for NSCLC therapeutic candidates. This review begins with an exploration of the mechanisms of autophagy and apoptosis, proceeds to examine the crosstalk molecules between these processes, and outlines their implications and interactions in NSCLC. Finally, the paper reviews natural products that have been intensively studied against NSCLC targeting autophagy and apoptosis, and summarizes in detail the four most retrieved representative drugs. This paper clarifies good therapeutic effects of natural products in NSCLC by targeting autophagy and apoptosis and aims to promote greater consideration by researchers of natural products as candidates for anti-NSCLC drug discovery.
Insights
Natural products show promise for treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by targeting autophagy and apoptosis. This review explores their mechanisms, interactions, and therapeutic potential in NSCLC drug discovery.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) being the most common subtype.
- Autophagy and apoptosis play complex, interconnected roles in NSCLC development and progression.
- Natural products offer multitargeting, safe, and effective therapeutic strategies for NSCLC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms of autophagy and apoptosis and their crosstalk in NSCLC.
- To explore natural products as potential therapeutic agents targeting these pathways in NSCLC.
- To summarize representative natural products and their efficacy against NSCLC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of autophagy, apoptosis, and their interplay in NSCLC.
- Analysis of natural products investigated for anti-NSCLC activity via autophagy and apoptosis modulation.
- Detailed summary of four prominent natural product drugs.
Main Results:
- Autophagy and apoptosis exhibit intricate and dual roles in NSCLC.
- Crosstalk molecules significantly influence the interplay between autophagy and apoptosis in NSCLC.
- Natural products demonstrate significant therapeutic effects against NSCLC by targeting these pathways.
Conclusions:
- Natural products are promising candidates for NSCLC therapy due to their ability to modulate autophagy and apoptosis.
- Further research into natural products could lead to novel anti-NSCLC drug discovery.
- Targeting autophagy and apoptosis with natural products offers a viable strategy for NSCLC treatment.
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