Targeting the pancreatic tumor microenvironment by plant-derived products and their nanoformulations
Mohamed J Saadh1, Mohammed Ahmed Mustafa2, H Malathi3
1Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman, 11831, Jordan.
Abstract:
Pancreatic cancer remains a significant health issue with limited treatment options. The tumor stroma, a complex environment made up of different cells and proteins, plays a crucial role in tumor growth and chemoresistance. Targeting tumor stroma, consisting of diverse non-tumor cells such as fibroblasts, extracellular matrix (ECM), immune cells, and also pre-vascular cells is encouraging for remodeling solid cancers, such as pancreatic cancer. Remodeling the stroma of pancreas tumors can be suggested as a strategy for reducing resistance to chemo/immunotherapy. Several studies have shown that phytochemicals from plants can affect the tumor environment and have anti-cancer properties. By targeting key pathways involved in stromal activation, phytochemicals may disrupt communication between the tumor and stroma and make tumor cells more sensitive to different treatments. Additionally, phytochemicals have immunomodulatory and anti-angiogenic properties, all of which contribute to their potential in treating pancreatic cancer. This review will provide a detailed look at how phytochemicals impact the tumor stroma and their effects on pancreatic tumor growth, spread, and response to treatment. It will also explore the potential of combining phytochemicals with other treatment options like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation.
Insights
Phytochemicals, plant-derived compounds, show promise in targeting pancreatic cancer
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- Pancreatic cancer presents significant therapeutic challenges due to limited treatment options.
- The tumor stroma, comprising diverse cellular and extracellular components, critically influences tumor progression and chemoresistance.
- Targeting the tumor stroma is a promising strategy for pancreatic cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of phytochemicals on the pancreatic tumor microenvironment.
- To explore the potential of phytochemicals in overcoming chemoresistance and enhancing treatment efficacy.
- To discuss the combination of phytochemicals with conventional therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on phytochemicals and pancreatic cancer.
- Analysis of phytochemical mechanisms targeting tumor stroma components (fibroblasts, ECM, immune cells, vasculature).
- Evaluation of phytochemicals' immunomodulatory and anti-angiogenic effects.
Main Results:
- Phytochemicals can modulate key pathways in stromal activation, disrupting tumor-stroma communication.
- Plant-derived compounds exhibit anti-cancer properties by affecting the tumor microenvironment.
- Phytochemicals demonstrate potential in reducing chemoresistance and sensitizing tumors to therapy.
Conclusions:
- Phytochemicals offer a viable strategy for remodeling the pancreatic tumor stroma.
- Targeting the tumor stroma with phytochemicals may improve treatment outcomes for pancreatic cancer.
- Combining phytochemicals with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation warrants further investigation.
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