Geraniol and citral: recent developments in their anticancer credentials opening new vistas in complementary cancer...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Natural Product Chemistry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Cancer is a leading global cause of death, with millions diagnosed annually.
• Current cancer treatments have limitations, and survival rates remain suboptimal.
• Plant-derived monoterpenes, geraniol and citral, have demonstrated significant anticancer potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the anticancer effects of geraniol and citral.
• To explore their potential as complementary or alternative cancer therapies.
• To elucidate their molecular mechanisms of action.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of scientific literature published in the last 5 years.
• Analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies on geraniol and citral.
• Examination of molecular pathways modulated by these monoterpenes.

Main Results:

• Geraniol and citral exhibit efficacy against a wide range of cancer types, including breast, liver, and prostate cancers.
• These monoterpenes can enhance chemotherapy effectiveness by targeting tumor signaling pathways.
• Studies have elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying their anticancer activities.

Conclusions:

• Geraniol and citral represent promising natural compounds for cancer therapy.
• They may serve as valuable adjuvants or alternative treatments to improve patient outcomes.
• Further research into their therapeutic applications is warranted.